Company Says 2003 Was A Success

Looking back on the last twelve months, it all seems like a whirlwind to some but Extra Aircraft LLC see it this buzz of activity as a very positive sign. According to Ken Keith, CEO and owner of the new company, the first year of his operation was filled with business success, customer satisfaction and several new aircraft orders.

"Extra had seen its share of troubled times, believe me," Keith added. "But our new team was committed to making 2003 a terrific year for the new Extra Aircraft, and that's exactly how we're seeing our first year conclude."

In addition to creating an all new US-owned management team and company infrastructure -- an admirable feat in itself in only a few months time -- Extra Aircraft brought its all new turbine-powered EA- 500 to market, as well.

"We've all worked our tails off to get this far," according to Ken Weaver, company president. "But our belief in the product and market feedback are strong indicators that our effort this year will pay off dividends."

Early in the year, Extra Aircraft became a fixture on the industry trade show circuit, having displayed the long successful aerobatic EA300L and the piston-powered cabin class EA400 during Sun'n Fun and Oshkosh. Later in the season, these two aircraft stood alongside as the company debuted the much anticipated EA500 during NBAA - with the prototype being flown over to the US from Germany by company founder and chief engineer, Walter Extra.

This rolled immediately into show appearances at the Malibu Mirage Owners and Pilots Association convention and the annual AOPA Show.

As if that's not all? Extra Aircraft took the show on the road - literally - by hosting a nationwide Sky Tour in late fall. Unlike industry trade shows where the buyers come to the airplane, this event took the airplane out to meet and greet customers.

"Our motto is to be everywhere, all of the time," quipped Weaver, who has logged thousands of miles in recent months. "I'm starting to feel more comfortable sleeping in the airplane than I do my own home."

The net result of the year, of course, is measured in sales. And, according to Keith, the company hit its target.

"We have commitments for our entire year one production on the EA-500," Keith stated. "And as the year closes, that's the very best holiday gift we could ask for."

FMI: www.ExtraAircraft.com