Cirrus Aircraft was one of the players behind this year’s improved delivery numbers for the first half. According to the General Aviation Manufacturers Association report, aircraft deliveries were up 8.9 percent overall compared with last year’s first six months, with deliveries of piston airplanes up 16.1 percent.
Cirrus reported a 32-percent increase during the second quarter, with 79 airplanes handed over to new owners. The total first half deliveries for Duluth, Minnesota-based Cirrus were 130, the company’s best performance since 2008.
Executive vice president of sales and marketing Todd Simmons said that demand is “starting to feel closer to pre-recession levels.” He added, “These latest performance results confirm strong preference by both individuals and institutions alike for design innovation unique to Cirrus Aircraft.”
Last week, Cirrus announced a new order for an unspecified number of SR22s for primary training for the Royal Saudi Air Force. The agreement marks the third fleet deal for Cirrus, with the U.S. Air Force and the French Armée de l’Air also ordering its trainers.
Cirrus also credits its “Pilot on Demand” program for increased sales. Under the program, Cirrus can provide an experienced pilot for an aircraft owner who may not be a pilot or is less proficient. Since the pilot on demand is a flight instructor, the owner can hone his or her flying skills while using the aircraft for practical transportation.
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