Sonex Aircraft Declares Bankruptcy and Ceases Operations
In a significant setback for the homebuilt aircraft community, Sonex Aircraft LLC has declared its immediate shutdown and bankruptcy filing, marking an end to its nearly three-decade-long service to experimental aviation enthusiasts.
The company’s owner, Mark Schaible, disclosed the closure in a heartfelt video message. He attributed the shutdown to a “perfect storm” of factors. These included a drastic decline in sales, escalating operational costs, banking pressures, and competition from the company’s own aircraft in the second-hand market. Both Schaible and the company are set to file for bankruptcy.
Established in 1998 by aviation pioneer John Monnett, Sonex has been a fundamental pillar of the kit aircraft industry. The company has produced affordable and popular models such as the Sonex, Waiex, and Onex sport aircraft. According to company records, approximately 700 Sonex aircraft have been built, with over 2,100 projects currently in progress by builders worldwide.
“We have fought tooth-and-nail to make Sonex successful,” Schaible stated in the announcement. “It is incredibly painful for me to bring this news to you today.” He added that he and his wife will file personal bankruptcy in addition to the business bankruptcy, and that the company’s nine employees are now jobless.
While Schaible admitted that a last-minute investment or purchase seems unlikely, he and founder John Monnett are in search of someone willing to support the existing Sonex fleet and fulfill outstanding Sonex Highwing kit orders.
Source: AOPA