World's best-selling aircraft, the Cirrus SR22

SR22 tops best-seller lists as Cirrus and Cessna lead US manufacturer revival.
Sales of single engine Piston aircraft look set to hit a new high when figures are released this month. The General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA) has confirmed deliveries during the first three quarters of 2005 were up more than 25% on the same period in 2004. Worldwide, 1685 piston powered aircraft were shipped, up from 1342 in 2004.

Both Cessna and Cirrus have already issued upbeat 2005 year-end figures. Cessna said it delivered 822 single-engine piston aircraft, 86 Caravan single turboprops, and 249 Citation jets. Cirrus reports 600 aircraft shipped in 2005, up 9.2% on 2004. The SR22 is the world’s best-selling aircraft for the fourth year running. “2005 was a very good year for Cirrus! There has not been another startup company in the last 50 years to accomplish what we have – which is to deliver 2000 airplanes in less than six years,” said Cirrus chief exec Alan Klapmeier. Cessna boss Jack Pelton said the Kansas company made “remarkable gains”. He said: “As good as 2005 was, we expect 2006 to be even better.”

Texas firm Mooney is on course to double its deliveries in 2005 over the previous year.
By October, it had shipped 66 aircraft compared with 36 the year before. New Piper Aircraft was slightly up at the end of Q3 with a total of 172 aircraft shipped, compared with 165 for the same period in ’04. The Florida company was hit badly over the winter of 2004/05 by no fewer than three serious hurricanes.

● Hurricanes are blamed for a series of damaged aircraft coming onto the US market. The US aviation authority, the FAA, has issued guidance material for prospective buyers. “Aircraft damaged during these weather events can be repaired,” says the FAA. “However, airmen should consider the long-term effects to aircraft that have been submerged in water.”
W: www.faasafety.gov

● Big Misters, a UK shipping agent, says there has been confusion over VAT liability on aircraft. Some buyers may have incorrectly claimed VAT Relief which HM Revenue & Customs is starting to audit. Big Misters is offering a free service until 31 March to PFA and AOPA members to negotiate VAT liability.
 W: www.bigmisters.co.uk