Flight Design ups U.S. content in German design

Detroit auto manufacturers use the phrase “Domestic Content” to describe the portion of their vehicles fabricated in America. For several years, importer Flight Design USA has been using an increasing portion of USA made components in the CT and MC series aircraft it sells to Americans, according to company officials.

Why use more “domestic content?” Flight Design USA cites many reasons including high-quality and well-respected American parts, easier servicing of parts subject to normal wear, plus lower costs. While some countries offer low cost labor, aerospace parts made to precise standards are often best sourced from U.S. producers.

“We are pleased to announce that Flight Design USA will be using an American-made Sensenich three-blade composite propeller, the Dynon Mode S transponder, and Desser 4.00 x 6 inch tires and tubes,” reported Flight Design USA president Tom Peghiny at this year’s Sun ’n Fun. According to staff at German manufacturer Flight Design GmbH, the Desser tires are more durable than the Sava tires previously used, plus the Sensenich and Dynon brands are well accepted by U.S. buyers.

Previously Flight Design USA announced the following American-sourced components: brake systems (Matco); airframe parachute (BRS); radios and avionics (Garmin); intercom (PS Engineering); EFIS/EMS glass displays (Dynon); optional autopilot (TruTrak); and additionally, oil hoses; fire sleeve material; and other items.

“We have steadily increased the American-made content in our CT and MC series of Light-Sport Aircraft,” reported John Gilmore, national sales manager for Flight Design USA. “Our customers appreciate the value of ‘Made in America’ and it enables us to provide a very high level of professional service and support.”

“Flight Design made a decision four years ago to increase the U.S. content of our aircraft whenever possible. Doing so reduces our exposure to exchange rate fluctuations,” explained Peghiny. “And our American owners also think this is worthy; they get faster service, lower prices, and can communicate in their own language and with no time zone or exchange rate problems.” He estimated that close to 50% of the value of the aircraft comes from American suppliers.

Flight Design USA is the U.S. importer of the Flight Design CT and MC series of LSA from Germany. Delivering more than 330 Special LSA to customers through its network of distributors and dealers, Flight Design USA has led the field since the first LSA approval in 2005. The carbon fiber CT series of aircraft are the best-selling LSA in America by a wide margin augmented by the addition of the all-metal MC series in 2010. Globally, more than 1,700 Flight Design aircraft are in service around the globe with three CTs having recently flown around the world.

For more information: FlightDesignUSA.com