Kunovice, Czech Republic, 18th January 2011

After a year of having been marketed as the PiperSport in co-operation with Piper Aircraft Inc; by mutual agreement, Czech Sport Aircraft's SportCruiser (ICAO type CRUZ) is to once again be independently distributed.

Why has this happened?

CSA and Piper have agreed to end the relationship that has been in place for the past year (announced formally at Sebring last January). The main reasons being differences in direction and philosophy of the two firms. CSA wish to continue to distribute CSA aircraft world wide and do not want to focus on the US market only. The process is being handled smoothly and professionally so that it will be as seamless as possible.

What happens now?

The name of the aircraft will change from PiperSport back to SportCruiser. But other than that it is very much business as usual. The network of dealers, distributors and service agents that surrounds the type will continue to operate and to be strengthened; though now directly under the Czech Sport Aircraft banner. Both new and existing clients will continue to be receive the highest possible levels of service – much of the supply and logistics chain has always run directly with CSA.

As the aircraft continues to prove itself as a market leader, fun, economic and reliable Light Sports Trainer and Tourer; sales look to continue to hold market share and grow in numbers. Clients can also be reassured that CSA is a strong and stable company. Backed by leading European private capital firm Slavia Capital, the company enjoys respect in the market, has a current order book in excess of 150 aircraft and continues to invest in R&D.

CSA will fully support existing SportCruiser fleet as well PiperSport fleet. We will fully support Piper Sport Distribution. CSA would like to thank Mr. Kevin Gould, Mr. John Becker, Mr. Bob Kromer, Mr. Derek Zimmerman and Mrs. Marry Messuti for cooperation.

When Mr. Piper introduced the Piper Cub in 1937, he had a dream. He felt that everyone should fly. And he believed that Piper could provide everyone with that freedom. This is what we at CSA still bear in mind and will do our best to deliver trend setting aircraft to the aviation community at an affordable price.

Czech Sport Aircraft a.s.
Aviation company changing the aviation industry

The SportCruiser has always been regarded as a class leading aircraft and in 2011 is set to keep getting better. Significant new design changes are also soon to be unveiled in the 2011. These include revisions from spinner through canopy, elevator, ailerons and wing tips which all make an already superb aircraft even better.

European flight schools are also eagerly awaiting the final issue of the SportCruiser EASA Restricted Type Certificate which will allow the aircraft to be used for flight training purposes in the region. This is anticipated now for Q1 2011 release and will help satisfy the strong demand for aircraft to replace the ageing legacy training fleet. Responding to client demand, the SportCruiser will be available in a variety of configurations, build and trim levels. These range from the QBK (QuickBuild / Experimental) model for home builders through to the RTF (Ready to Fly) plane with a choice of basic but high quality analogue instruments through to full glass panel configurations with luxury leather seats, BRS and autopilot. Recognising that different parts of the world have different needs, the SC will also be configured to take into account the climates that the aircraft are to be predominately flown in. For example in Australia very strong DUC or WarpDrive props will be fitted where the otherwise excellent Czech WoodComp props struggled to cope with the extreme thermal conditions. In warmer climes the air scoop option almost doubles airflow to the cabin and in Italy no self respecting aviator would want to land their plane if not fitted with the matching available designer luggage cases in the wing lockers.

The CSA Dealer Network currently covers 24 countries and is made up of seasoned professionals who are dedicated to customer service as well as all being keen aviators. This year the company also has a tie up with one of the Redbull Air Races pilot Martin Sonka which will lead to high level exposure of the brand around the world. Martin is not only RedBull Airrace pilot, he is also a display pilot of Czech Airforce. CSA will proudly introduce a new MT (Primary Military Trainer) at AERO Friedrichshafen 2011 which will fill the gap in the segment. At AERO CSA will also introduce our new high wing design. To sum it up – a lot of news will follow up soon.

Commenting on the year ahead, Petr Duben, Managing Director of CSA said 'We are looking forward to a very good year in 2011. Production Organisation Approval, Design Organisation Approval together with our highly sophisticated aircraft engineers create a complete new standards in the LSA industry. Our aircraft excel in key attributes of good looks, safety, capability, economics and are joy to own & fly.' Specifically on the subject of the dissolution of the Piper marketing agreement, Petr stated that 'This will allow us once again to engage directly with clients and dealers to provide the best aircraft for their needs at the best value'.