Member Connection: Cirrus Aircraft

Congratulations are due to the many APEX investor-members who worked collaboratively to bring the Cirrus Aircraft Completion Center from concept to reality. This outstanding project was recognized by Finance & Commerce as a top project in 2017 and strengthens another unique manufacturing application in the APEX Region.

This project was truly a collaborative effort that would not have been possible without APEX members Cirrus Aircraft, Burns & McDonnell and McGough Construction. Cirrus worked with Burns & McDonnell to design the new facility and McGough Construction oversaw all construction efforts, employing many local trades workers and companies to complete the job. Other organizations on this project included Belknap Electric, Inc., Northland Consulting Engineers, Briese Iron Works and our partner, the City of Duluth.
 
The state-of-the-art Cirrus Aircraft Completion Center was designed to meet the growing demand for Cirrus’ newest aircraft offering, the Vision One Jet, which was recently awarded the 2017 Robert J. Collier Trophy for developing the world’s first single-engine personal jet and implementing the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System on the aircraft.
 
Due to the high demand for Vision One Jets, Cirrus expedited the construction process. All partners and contractors worked together to complete the design and construction phases as quickly and efficiently as possible. The project was completed on time and has helped Cirrus to increase production of the new aircraft.
 
“Aerospace manufacturing is a unique industry for the Duluth area and the City of Duluth worked hard to help Cirrus grow in the region,” stated Brian Hanson, APEX President and CEO. The project was planned carefully, down to the minute details, to create a functional, clean space for Cirrus to complete the essential finishing elements (sanding, priming and painting) to the aircraft they manufacture.