PIPER EYES UP SPORTCRUISER

15 Sep 2009

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If you have your heart set on the beautiful Czech Sport Aircraft SportCruiser, but hanker for the service network of a giant US manufacturer, your prayers might be about to be answered.

LOOP understands that resurgent American firm Piper Aircraft is in talks with Czech Sport for a potential takeover deal. If it goes through, it would see a newly-branded Piper Cruiser enter the company product line as it expands its range in piston-engine aircraft to the lighter end of the market.

Piper refuses to comment on talk emerging within the Czech Republic that one of the jewels in its aviation crown is about to partner with a global player, and stonewalls any enquiries. Piper spokesman Mark Miller said: "It is Piper policy to neither confirm or deny any speculation on any acquisitions." Czech Sport is also rebuffing enquiries.

A tie-up would make sense to both firms. Piper's recent takeover by finance house Imprimis has given it a deep well of funds for the manufacturer to accelerate development of new models and expand its dealer network globally.

The SportCruiser is an all-metal low-wing aircraft so would fit right in with the existing Piper range neatly, and give it a powerful instant foothold in the burgeoning LSA sector.

Whatever the outcome of talks, it portrays both companies in a strong light. Piper is delivering on its promise to expand and give Piper owners more choice and back-up, and Czech Sport shows that it is making such a good aircraft that one of the majors wants it. Let's see how it plays out.

It's not the first time that a US/European tie-up has emerged in the lightweight sector. Cirrus was due to use the German Funk FK-14 design as the basis for its SRS lightweight. That project is currently on hold.  And let's not forget that Piper's arch-rival, Cessna, also has the Cessna SkyCatcher light sport aircraft about to start mass deliveries.

Piper Aircraft: www.piper.com
Czech Sport Aircraft: www.czechsportaircraft.com
 

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