WACO Aircraft Shuts Factory, FBO/MRO To Follow

General aviation manufacturer WACO Aircraft—owned since 2018 by Germany-based Dimor Group—abruptly announced on Wednesday that it was shutting down its aircraft production facility in Battle Creek, Michigan. WACO’s adjoining FBO/MRO facility, Centennial Aircraft Services, is also winding down its operations.

The company was the spiritual descendant of the original Weaver Aircraft Co. (WACO), which was founded in 1920 and produced open-cockpit biplanes that have since become classics. In 1983, the designs were revived by new ownership, and production of the modernized aircraft began. In 1999, it moved its plant to Battle Creek Executive Airport at Kellogg Field (KBTL). It opened an FBO in 2021.

A person with ties to the organization told AIN the FBO will continue to operate for another 60 to 90 days with a limited staff. It will continue to service general aviation aircraft, they said, but warned that business jet and turboprop operators should check with the FBO ahead of time to ensure there will be a staffer trained in jet-A fueling on hand upon arrival. WACO will honor the lease of the restaurant on the second floor of the terminal, which will continue to operate as normal.

According to the source, a handful of prospective buyers are considering purchasing the company.