|
At EAA AirVenture Oshkosh 2006, Cessna
Aircraft Company unveiled its proof of concept light-sport aircraft, the
Cessna Sport, to enthusiastic crowds. Today the company announced its
plans to proceed with production of the aircraft and its LSA program.
Cessna will display an all-new, full-scale aircraft mock-up and provide
further program details during an 8:30 a.m. media conference the day
before AirVenture 2007's opening day, Sunday, July 22, in the EAA
AirVenture Museum's Eagle Hangar.
"After conducting extensive market
research, it is clear to us there is a great need for this aircraft as we
strive to drive down the cost of flying and learning to fly," said
Cessna Chairman, President and CEO Jack J. Pelton. "We believe this
aircraft will make a major contribution to stimulating new pilot starts
and will encourage already-licensed pilots to continue to fly because it
will be more affordable."
Cessna will conduct an opening day
ribbon-cutting ceremony at 8:30 a.m. at its exhibit (Booths 143-156).
Later on Monday (1:00 to 2:15 p.m.), the company will detail its LSA
program during a forum at the Honda Forum Pavilion 7. EAA President Tom
Poberezny will participate in all three events along with Pelton.
"I am pleased with Cessna's
announcement today that they will proceed with the light-sport aircraft
program," Poberezny said. "This announcement validates EAA's
vision for the sport pilot/light-sport aircraft initiative and will have a
major impact on the future growth of the pilot community."
Pelton added, "We have developed a
business case that makes sense; we have incorporated several innovative
features into the design; and we believe we can deliver the finest
aircraft in the category, combined with our extensive customer service,
flight training and distribution networks, at an attractive price."
|
