Assets Being Transferred To Basler Turbo Conversions In Oshkosh

While there are signs of recovery in the economy, at least for some larger aviation businesses, you don't have to look very far to realize that many companies are still struggling, and not all are surviving.

A case in point is an e-mail that was forwarded to ANN Friday concerning Baumann Floats. In the e-mail, general manager Joe Birkemeyer says the company is folding its tent.

Birkemyer writes: "Due to the unfortunate economic conditions we have all faced in the past couple of years, our current owner of Baumann Floats LLC has decided to discontinue production of all of our float models.  The equipment, design data, STC's and inventory will be relocated over to Oshkosh, WI and placed with Basler Turbo Conversions LLC.  I personally as well as the rest of my crew will not be moving over to Oshkosh with the company and we will no longer be employed by Baumann Floats LLC.

"Randy Myers, head of production at Basler Turbo Conversions will be the new interim contact person for any parts orders from April, 1, 2011 on.  I realize that many of you have invested significant amounts of hard earned money into your airplanes by purchasing and equipping your planes with floats from Baumann Floats LLC.  It is my sincere hope that there will be continued customer support addressed in a timely fashion for parts and products manufactured by Baumann Floats LLC.

"I would like to thank you personally for all of your support and commitment you have given me and Baumann Floats over the past years.  Through your patronage we have been able to bring a great aircraft float design to the market and we could not have done it with out your commitment and enthusiasm.  I have been extremely fortunate to meet the majority of my customers face to face and have been able to experience some great seaplane flying adventures along the way.  I have been truly blessed with the opportunity of providing Baumann Floats to the aviation community and it has been my pleasure to serve you over the past 10 years as General Manager of Baumann Floats LLC."

FMI: www.baslerturbo.com, www.baumannfloats.com