Will Honor Deposits Towards XL2 Purchase

In light of the placement of New Zealand planemaker Alpha Aviation into Receivership last month, US-based general aviation aircraft manufacturer Liberty Aerospace tells ANN it has decided to honor customer deposits from Alpha Aviation clients, towards the purchase of a new Liberty XL2 aircraft.

"The possible exit of Alpha Aviation from the market will be a significant loss to the aviation community," said Keith Markley, Chief Executive Officer of Liberty Aerospace. "As an industry we are dedicated to working together, and our offer is intended to keep the aviation community flying by delivering modern aircraft to those buyers who still wish to own a new aircraft."

Liberty Aerospace will honor unfulfilled customer deposits previously placed on new, undelivered Alpha 120T, 160A and 160Ai aircraft, as a deposit on a new Liberty XL2 aircraft, subject to program requirements. Customers should be willing to provide proof of their previous deposit, and enter into a binding purchase agreement.

Liberty will honor up to a maximum of $10,000 towards the purchase price of an XL2 with no further funds being required until delivery. This opportunity is being offered for a limited time and is dependent on market response.

As ANN reported, Alpha entered liquidation proceedings January 22. The company was established in 2004 to build the French-designed two-seat Robin R2160 and 2120 single-engine aircraft.

The company had ambitious plans to sell the generally well-regarded Robin -- renamed the Alpha 200 series -- in the worldwide training market. The aircraft earned FAA type-certification last year.

FMI: www.libertyaerospace.com