Getting Out Of The Kit Business, But Plans Will Still Be Available

In an open letter, Fisher Flying Products president Paul Riedlinger has announced that the company will no longer be offering airplane kits to new customers, effective immediately. Full size plans will still be available for anyone who wants to build one of the company's 14 models from scratch, and full technical support will continue to be offered.

Riedlinger said replacement parts and kits needed to complete aircraft will continue to be available. The changes only affect new customers. "I do ask that you place any orders for kits needed by March 15th," he wrote. "These changes will remain in effect until I can find a buyer for the company who can restart production and carry Fisher forward into the future."

Riedlinger took over FFP from Gene and Darlene Hanson five years ago. He said he has "had the time of my life reviving the company and making these great airplanes available once again. I have made many good friends and look forward to coming into work each day and talking with our great customers. I love dealing with our customer base which is truly world-wide.

"So, why the change? Well, it certainly is not because the company is in any type of trouble. In fact we grew 40% in sales last year, invested in new modern production equipment and employed some of highly skilled people. With the US market finally coming back, the future sales potential for the company is very promising. It all comes down to time and being able to treating our customers with the level of service they have come to expect and deserve. What many people do not realize is that I took on Fisher because of my love of aviation and the desire to keep the FFP designs from disappearing. Besides running Fisher, I also own another business, guest lecture at the University of Toronto and I am in the process of getting my Doctorate at Reading University in England. I have always prided myself on providing excellent service and support for Fisher's products and recently it has become clear to me that with everything else going on I simply do not have the time to dedicate to FFP that it deserves. My goal with the changes is to allow me to provide support and products to existing customers while I search for a new owner for the company. I do not want to see anyone left stranded without the parts needed to complete their aircraft.

"With all of this in mind, I would also like to announce that the company is for sale. With 14 different designs, a huge worldwide customer base of over 4000 people it is a great opportunity for someone who is looking to immerse themselves in the aviation world. What is for sale is all of the designs, production jigs, engineering, copyrights, etc.

"If you are interested in finding out more please feel free to contact me.

"I know that the changes are going to make some people unhappy but I hope you understand why I need to make them. It has been a pleasure dealing with each of you for the past 5 years and I look forward to continuing to support the Fisher line of aircraft."

(Pictured: Fisher Dakota Hawk)

FMI: www.fisherflying.com