![First flight of the Sonex Highwing on June 30, 2025 [Credit: Sonex Aviation]](https://www.flyingmag.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/2/2026/05/Hignwing-First-Flight-063025-487A8192-e1751396186531.jpg)
Sonex Aviation is back in business.
Three weeks ago, the Oshkosh, Wisconsin-based company announced it was closing due to financial hardship. On May 1, Sonex announced all assets of Sonex Aircraft, including the Sonex Aerospace and AeroConversions lines, have been acquired by ON Capital Inc., led by Stephen Osborne.
According to Sonex, Osborne is a general contractor, lifetime EAA member, third-generation aviator and warbird pilot, and flight school owner. On his LinkedIn page Osborne noted the acquisition of Sonex means his team officially enters the aviation sector.
“We are proud to announce the acquisition of Sonex Aircraft assets and reopen production in just 21 days from initial contact,” Osborne wrote. “Sonex is an extraordinary platform with a legacy of innovation and craftsmanship. This marks a decisive step forward as we invest aggressively in advanced R&D, accelerate product development, and scale manufacturing to meet growing demand. Our vision is clear: Build, innovate, and lead at the intersection of aviation excellence and industrial performance.”
- READ MORE: Sonex Builder Community Regroups in Wake of Company Shutdown
- READ MORE: Sonex Aircraft Closes Doors Amid ‘Severe Drop-Off in Sales’
On May 1 the company now called Sonex Aviation posted an announcement on its website.
“The lights are on, crews are working, and kits are moving,” it read. “We are coming back better. The next chapter is powered by a focused, experienced team, assembled to streamline operations, improve production efficiency, and elevate our customers to an exceptional builder experience.”
Osborne also addressed the Sonex customers who a few weeks ago were wondering if their aircraft had just become obsolete.
“My family has flown for three generations. It’s an absolute honor to carry on the proud legacy of the Sonex brand,” Osborne said in a news release. “Sonex is part of how this country builds pilots and how everyday people get into the sky. Letting it disappear was never an option. To every customer with a deposit on the books…get your shop space ready. We are open, we are building, and your kit is coming.”
The new ownership has the endorsement of Sonex founder John T. Monnett Jr.
“Stephen’s team has the capital, the conviction, and the love of flight to take Sonex further than it has ever been,” Monnett said. “I’m proud to support this team going forward.”
Mark Schaible, former owner and president of the company, will remain in the role of lead designer of Sonex Aviation.
What’s Next
According to the company, there are 80 preorders for the Sonex Highwing aircraft on the books. Tail kits will resume shipping this month, with full kits expected to head out the door by midsummer.
