Category: General Aviation

Cirrus Introduces Cirrus Next Aircraft Trade-In and Upgrade Program

Cirrus (Cirrus Aircraft Ltd.) announced Cirrus Next, an aircraft trade-in and upgrade program designed to simplify the purchase of a new Cirrus aircraft. Cirrus Next ensures a streamlined upgrade pathway to a new aircraft, with a trade-in option for the aircraft you currently own or a transition aircraft purchased through the Cirrus Next program. Cirrus Next eliminates the complexities of managing two aircraft at once or having a gap in aircraft ownership. The program is available for late model SR Series aircraft and all generations of Vision Jets.

“Cirrus Next eases the new aircraft upgrade process for SR Series and Vision Jet owners,” said Zean Nielsen, chief executive officer of Cirrus. “We are dedicated to simplifying aircraft ownership, and with Cirrus Next, we aim to complement new aircraft sales purchases and our network of brokers by removing barriers, uncertainty and downtime oftentimes associated with the transition.”

Cirrus Next is unique because it is a manufacturer-backed trade-in program with seamless trade-in support complementing the authorized pre-owned network of Cirrus brokers.

Premier Aircraft Annouces it Has Partnered with Wings Leasing to Introduce the “Premier Advantage Flight School Leasing Program” for Nes Generation Diamond Aircraft and Simulators

Premier Aircraft, the longest-standing and most trusted Diamond Aircraft dealer in America, announced that it is partnering with Wings Leasing to introduce the “Premier Advantage Flight School Leasing Program.”

“Today’s flight students want to train in the newest and most modern aircraft. As it stands, we see too many active flight training programs whose growth is being hindered by financing institutions that don’t understand the unique needs of our industry,” stated Travis Peffer, CEO of Premier Aircraft. “Our dedicated partnership with Wings Leasing will allow us to use our decades of combined experience in selling, operating, and financing training aircraft to help universities and flight schools upgrade their fleets with new Diamond Aircraft at truly affordable rates.”

Peffer explained that the new Premier Advantage Flight School Leasing Program offers universities and independent flight schools an array of benefits, including:

• Financing available on new Diamond DA20-C1, DA40NG, and DA42-VI aircraft and Diamond simulators

• Options for zero-down or low-down payments, which frees up precious operating capital

• Turn-key fleet upgrade solutions tailored to the unique needs of universities and flight schools

• Flexible fleet leasing options for new aircraft and simulators at rates that ensure the highest revenue return per operating hour

• Sale-leaseback options that allow operators to access the capital in their current fleet without giving up the use of any aircraft

• Flexible fleet acquisition and management solutions that ensure that the operator will always have access to the latest in aircraft and simulators from Diamond Aircraft

• Fast, easy qualification processing with quick financing approvals means the new Diamond Aircraft are on your flightline and generating revenue much sooner.

“Premier Aircraft is the leader in helping flight schools with the purchase and operation of Diamond Aircraft’s entire line of single and twin-engine training aircraft and simulators,” states Alan Goodnight, Founder and President of Wings Leasing. “We are the leader in creating attainable and affordable leasing solutions that make it easier for flight schools and their students to benefit from what these aircraft have to offer.”

“That’s why we partnered to create the new Premier Advantage Flight School Leasing Program,” he continued. “With our custom-tailored finance solutions, flight schools can continue to build equity through new aircraft, optimize hourly profit with our industry pricing analysis, and gain a long-term competitive advantage.”

Peffer said that, along with helping flight schools select the right Diamond Aircraft for their fleets, Premier Aircraft can also support their ongoing operations with:

• Technical and operational support provided by Premier’s team of Diamond Factory Trained experts

• The most extensive inventory of spare parts to keep your Diamond fleet flying

• Guaranteed overnight shipping on all in-stock parts

• Optional extended airframe and avionics warranties to help control operating and maintenance costs.

For more information about the Premier Advantage Flight School Leasing Program, visit: premieraircraft.com

Butler National Anounces Opening of Parts Fabrication Facility

Butler National Corporation announces the opening and ribbon-cutting for the new 33,000-square-foot parts fabrication facility of its subsidiary, Avcon Industries, Inc., at the Newton City-County Airport in Newton, Kansas. Avcon’s continued growth has necessitated the expansion of its fabrication operations in Newton, Kansas. Avcon commenced operations in 1970 with a focus on modifying airplanes for special purposes. More than fifty years later, Avcon’s special mission aircraft modification capabilities have significantly grown. As result of growth, Avcon acquired the adjacent facility to the south of the Avcon campus at Newton City-County Airport. With the new facility, Avcon has purchased expanded multi-axis large envelope machining centers in addition to relocating existing CNC equipment. Avcon has also acquired a waterjet and a large envelope CNC press brake. The Avcon facility is AS9100 compliant.

Marcus Abendroth, president of Avcon, commented, “We are excited to open and deploy our expanded fabrication facility. When Avcon previously worked on three to four airplane modification projects at a time, the former approximately 5,000 square-foot fab shop was sufficient. However, with our 2023 expansion to New Century, Kansas, and an increase in modification kit sales, Avcon has had to outsource a significant amount of parts fabrication. With the new building, added CNC machines, and new fabrication equipment, Avcon is well-positioned to bring manufacturing back in-house. This new facility will enhance Avcon’s aircraft modification capabilities and margins.”

AvionTEq Announces 2025 Year-End Inventory Reduction Event: Exclusive Discounts, Trade-In Offers, and Complimentary Gifts

AvionTEq, a leading global supplier of new and refurbished avionics test equipment, is excited to announce the launch of its 2025 Year-End Inventory Reduction Event. This limited-time promotion features exclusive savings, special trade-in credits, and a complimentary gift with select purchases — available through December 31, 2025, or while supplies last.

As part of the promotion, clients can choose one free premium gift with eligible purchases: an Apple iPad (9th Gen), Apple Watch SE (2nd Gen), or Amaztim T3 Ultra smartwatch — offering added value to every qualifying order.

Featured Avionics Test Equipment

AvionTEq’s year-end event includes a wide selection of new and refurbished avionics test sets from leading manufacturers such as Laversab, Viavi, Barfield, Tel Instrument, and BAE Systems. Featured equipment includes:

  • FDS FDS40-0301 HHMPI for CVR, FDR, SSFDR (New)
  • CCX T-RX RP+ Radio & Pulse NAV/COMM Transponder Multifunction Test Set (New)
  • Laversab ARTS-7000 NAV/COMM Test Set (New)
  • Tel Instrument TIC SDR-Omni Multifunction All-in-One Avionics Test Set (New)
  • Barfield DPS450 Pitot Static Test Set (Refurbished)
  • Laversab 6600-NG Air Data Test Set (New)
  • Laversab 6300 Air Data Test Set (Refurbished)
  • Vitrek / MTI Instruments PBS-4100+ Gen4 Portable Vibration & Balancing System (New)
  • Viavi / Aeroflex IFR6000 Multifunction Transponder Test Set (Refurbished)
  • Viavi / Aeroflex IFR4000 NAV COMM Test Set (Refurbished)
  • Viavi / Aeroflex PSD90-1C AC/DC Fuel Capacitance Test Set (Refurbished)
  • Viavi / Aeroflex 8800SX Digital Radio Test Set (Refurbished)
  • L3Harris 17TES0043 Portable Interface (PI) for FDR, CVR, CVDR FA2100 (Refurbished)
  • Viavi / Aeroflex IFR RD-301 Weather Radar Test Set (Refurbished)
  • BAE Systems Controls LRT Loop Resistance Tester (New / Refurbished)
  • Firstmark Aerospace 2591553-903 Standby Compass Calibrator (New)

Trade-In Program: Upgrade and Save

AvionTEq is also offering a trade-in program to help clients upgrade outdated avionics test equipment. Qualified participants can receive credit toward newer models such as the T-RX RP+, SDR-OMNI, or ARTS-7000.

To participate, submit the following details to sales@avionteq.net:

  • Photos of the unit while powered up
  • Serial number and last calibration date
  • List of included accessories
  • Desired upgrade model

AvionTEq’s team will review the submission and provide a personalized trade-in quote.

Exclusive Bundle Offer: FDS HHMPI & Readout Package

Clients purchasing FDS HHMPI kits can enjoy early access to FDS SRVIVR25 kits and receive additional value — including a complimentary gift and a $500 rebate when bundled with Readout Services.

Availability and Ordering Information

All promotional offers are valid until December 31, 2025, or while supplies last. Clients are encouraged to contact their AvionTEq representative to confirm pricing, availability, and shipping details.

Air Plains Services Gains PMA for Cessna 172 Spinner Bulkhead  

Air Plains Services, a world leader in general aviation engine and avionics upgrades, announced today it has gained Parts Manufacturing Approval (PMA) from the Federal Aviation Administration for its forward spinner bulkhead for a number of Cessna 172 models.

This component joins the Air Plains parts catalog that includes the Cessna 172 aft spinner bulkhead PMA component and the forward and aft bulkhead assemblies designed specifically for any Cessna 172 with the Air Plains 180hp engine upgrade STC.

“We’re always looking to expand our PMA range of parts for Cessna pistons, focusing on high quality and low market cost,” said Katie Church, Air Plains president. “We’ve already gained design and production expertise for this part through the STC process, so expanding the PMA product line to include legacy aircraft models was a logical extension.”

The forward PMA spinner bulkhead is approved for Cessna 172 I through P models and for French-made 172 L through P models.

Air Plains produces hundreds of PMA and STC parts for a wide variety of Cessna single-engine piston such as components for the air induction system including airboxes, collars, gaskets, adjustable brackets and baffles assemblies, all available at the company’s online store.

For information about the new spinner bulkhead or any Air Plains product, call 1-800-752-8481 or +1-620-326-8904 or send an email to sales@airplains.com.

OSM Aviation Academy Signs LOI for 25 IFR-Certified Tecnam P-Mentor Aircraft

Tecnam Aircraft announced that OSM Aviation Academy (OSMAA) has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for the purchase of 25 fully equipped IFR-certified Tecnam P-Mentor aircraft, with options for an additional five units.

With this new LOI, OSM Aviation Academy will enhance its training fleet and capacity, ensuring that future pilots benefit from the most advanced training aircraft available today. The Tecnam P-Mentor fleet will not only strengthen the Academy’s European operations but also support its expansion into new markets, including the United States, where demand for efficient, sustainable, and IFR-capable training aircraft continues to grow.

The Tecnam P-Mentor is the latest two-seat IFR trainer from Tecnam, offering unmatched efficiency, advanced avionics, and a fully EASA-certified IFR and PBN platform. Designed to comply with all the latest EASA requirements, the P-Mentor combines outstanding performance, low fuel consumption, and safety, making it the ideal aircraft for modern flight training operations.

“We are excited to strengthen our partnership with Tecnam as we continue to scale our training operations,” said Martin Floor, CEO of OSM Aviation Academy. “The P-Mentor’s efficiency, safety, and IFR capabilities make it the perfect aircraft for training the next generation of Airline Ready pilots.”

Driven by increasing demand for OSM Aviation Academy’s Airline Ready cadet program, this strategic partnership represents a significant step toward expanding the Academy’s global flight training capacity.

“The aircraft order forms part of a broader group strategy to establish a strong presence in the United States to support OSM’s flight training operations, while creating a platform for further expansion across both the U.S. and European markets,” said Hans Kyrre Hultgren, executive director of OSM Aviation Academy.

Walter Da Costa, Tecnam’s chief sales officer, commented: “We are delighted to support OSM Aviation Academy’s continued growth and commitment to excellence in pilot training. The P-Mentor embodies Tecnam’s mission to deliver innovative, reliable, and sustainable training solutions to the world’s leading flight schools.”

With this new LOI, OSM Aviation Academy will enhance its training fleet and capacity, ensuring that future pilots benefit from the most advanced training aircraft available today.

Aviation Institute of Maintenance and Safran Advance Partnership to Build the Next Generation of Aviation Professionals

The Aviation Institute of Maintenance (AIM) is pleased to build on its continued partnership with Safran USA to advance workforce development and create new career pathways for aviation maintenance students nationwide.

The renewed collaboration between AIM and Safran was celebrated at AIM’s Dallas campus on October 22, where AIM and Safran leaders joined students and faculty to unveil a Safran-branded classroom, present scholarships, and introduce Safran’s new employer brand campaign, “Here, we craft excellence together.”

“This partnership exemplifies AIM’s commitment to forging strong industry relationships that prepare our students for the evolving needs of the aviation industry,” said Dr. Ben Clark, vice president of business & civic impact at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance. “Safran’s investment in our students through scholarships, career engagement, and on-campus visibility reinforces the powerful link between education and industry in meeting the growing demand for skilled aviation technicians.”

The advanced partnership aligns with AIM’s mission to provide hands-on training and direct employer connections that prepare students for high-demand careers. Key initiatives include:

  • On-Campus Employer Engagement: Safran representatives will host Employer Spotlight events at AIM campuses, introducing students to career opportunities across Safran’s U.S. operations.
  • Career Pathways: AIM’s Career Services team will collaborate with Safran recruiters to identify top-performing students for entry-level positions, creating a pathway from classroom to career.
  • Scholarship Support: Five $1,000 scholarships were awarded to outstanding AIM students recognized for their academic achievement, attendance, and leadership.
  • Branded Classroom Experience: A Safran-branded classroom at AIM Dallas showcases aviation career paths and inspires students to pursue excellence in their training.
  • National Expansion: Building on success in Texas, the partnership will expand across AIM campuses nationwide to connect more students with industry opportunities.

“This expanded partnership reflects AIM’s vision to redefine how education and industry work together to shape the future of aviation,” said Jason Pfaff, chief executive officer at the Aviation Institute of Maintenance. “Safran’s continued collaboration underscores the power of strategic partnerships to bridge the gap classroom learning with real-world opportunity, building a confident, capable workforce ready to lead the next era of aerospace innovation.”

EAA AirVenture Oshkosh Dates Confirmed Through 2029

Dates for the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh fly-in convention at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, have been confirmed through 2029. Upcoming event dates are:

  • 2026: July 20-26
  • 2027: July 26-August 1
  • 2028: July 24-30
  • 2029: July 23-29

“EAA AirVenture is one of the aviation community’s major highlights each year, so announcing the dates for the next several years is important for enthusiasts around the world to begin planning their trips to Oshkosh,” said Jack J. Pelton, EAA CEO and Chairman of the Board. “We also realize that AirVenture’s dates affect the scheduling of many other aviation events, as well as other activities in Wisconsin, so it’s important to have these dates finalized for multiple years in advance.”

The Experimental Aircraft Association’s fly-in convention was first held in 1953 and has occurred in Oshkosh since 1970. More details regarding highlights of EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2026 will be announced as they are confirmed.

SilverLight Aviation Expands Engineering Consultancy Offering to Include Compliance for FAA’s MOSAIC Final Rule

SilverLight Aviation announced today the expansion of their aviation engineering consultancy offering to include MOSIAC compliance. This comes after years of successful engineering consultancy resulting in streamlined operations, quality assurance processes, ASTM compliance, and Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) airworthiness certification for a variety of aviation companies manufacturing light aircraft.

“MOSAIC brings exciting changes to pilots and manufacturers. From factory-built gyroplanes to faster 2 and 4-seat airplanes to twin-engine airplanes, everyone stands to benefit from reduced cost of compliance and greater capability,” said Abid Farooqui, president and founder of SilverLight Aviation. “SilverLight Aviation has helped many light aircraft manufacturers reach compliance and pass audits with the FAA team. Building upon that experience, we’re ready to consult and guide aircraft manufacturers to achieve their MOSAIC goals, take advantage of this upcoming rule change by the FAA, and achieve their business goals in the light aircraft market.”

The Modernization of Special Airworthiness Certification (MOSAIC) is a final rule from the FAA that will create a significant expansion of the Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) category as well as Sport Pilot privileges.

Sonic Launches “Pimp My Toolbox” Program, Offers Eight Unique Wrap Designs for Professional Technicians

Sonic, a leading provider of professional-grade tool solutions and equipment, today announced the “Pimp My Toolbox” customization program, empowering professional technicians and automotive enthusiasts to personalize their workspace with uniquely wrapped toolboxes that reflect their individual style without sacrificing superior functionality.

The new, limited time offering, exclusively features the Gen 1 S12 XD Toolbox, Sonic’s extra-deep and wide storage solution designed for advanced technicians who demand maximum capacity and organization. Each toolbox is professionally wrapped in high-quality film of choice and includes an exclusive 25 percent discount on comprehensive pre-configured tool sets from Sonic.

“Today’s professional technicians want organization and lots of storage – they also want their toolbox to reflect their personality, Sonic offers them both,” said John Basso, marketing director, Sonic USA. “The ‘Pimp My Toolbox’ wrap will use premium wrap materials to ensure that each wrapped toolbox meets our standards for both appearance and durability.”

The program offers eight carefully curated wrap designs to suit diverse tastes and professional environments:

  • Blue Hot Rod Flames: Classic automotive styling with dynamic blue flame graphics
  • Camo: Military-inspired camouflage pattern for rugged professionals
  • Hot Pink: Bold, eye-catching design that makes a statement
  • ‘Merica: Patriotic theme celebrating American craftsmanship
  • Orange Hot Rod Flames: The iconic and classic hot rod design
  • Right Tighty: Industry theme celebrating mechanical expertise
  • Skull and Wrenches: Edgy design combining automotive and rebellious aesthetics
  • The Crusader: Medieval-inspired design for those who view their craft as a noble pursuit

The foundation of the “Pimp My Toolbox” program, the Sonic Gen 1 S12 XD Toolbox, is specifically engineered for technicians who require comprehensive storage solutions. With 18,062 cubic inches of total storage space, the toolbox can accommodate up to 735 Sonic tools in the Sonic Foam System across its deep drawer system, making it ideal for technicians who need to be prepared for any job scenario.

Despite its robust capacity, the S12 XD remains highly maneuverable thanks to its four high-quality rubber casters – two swivel casters with brake functionality and two fixed casters. A steel side handle further increases mobility, allowing technicians to easily reposition their storage solution as needed. Each toolbox also features one-piece steel construction to maximize strength and rigidity, ensuring long-term durability even in the most demanding work environments.

Tbe Sonic “Pimp My Toolbox” progam is also covered under warranty.