OSH-Based Kitplane Manufacturer Has Seen A Lot In Its Eight Years

Family-owned kitplane manufacturer Sonex, Ltd. received the Oshkosh, WI Chamber of Commerce's 2005 Small Business of the Year award at a reception held last week during the city's 98th Annual Meeting and Recognition Program.

Sonex, founded in 1997 at the home of John and Betty Monnett, currently operates from a complex at the northeast corner of Wittman Field. In the last four years, the company reports it has averaged 30 percent growth -- and that Sonex aircraft are now either flying, or are under construction, in 23 countries.

According to a company release, the Monnetts attribute this growth to "producing a consistent product that allows aviators to build their own airplane for an affordable price."

The company also states its customers have fewer technical questions, a tribute to the long hours spent on the design of their aircraft and the detail of the plans. The company produces three aircraft -- the Waiex, Xenos, and Sonex. All three aircraft meet Light-Sport criteria.

The family has been featured in several publications, including Forbes and Popular Mechanics, and are very active in the Oshkosh community. Son -- and General Manager -- Jeremy Monnett is especially active in preserving Wittman field, and he participates in activities to educate the public on its importance to Oshkosh.

FMI: www.sonex-ltd.com