Now that Cessna has dropped its dealer network except for one in Alaska, the former dealers are finding new ways to make a profit. Cessna announced the move in early March.
Air Orlando, one of five ex-dealers that now have a special contract with Cessna to refer customers, has become a Diamond dealer. The firm has scheduled an open house April 4 featuring the DA62 and DA42 multiengine models, and the DA40 single-engine model.
The company announced its appointment as an authorized sales representative on March 23.
“Diamond Aircraft is a prominent general aviation manufacturer with an excellent mix of aircraft,” said Mike Long, president of Air Orlando. “We especially look forward to marketing and delivering the new DA62 twin-engine aircraft along with the current DA42 and DA40 models.”
Air Orlando continues to be a repair center for Cessna and other models.
Lincoln Park Aviation in Lincoln Park, New Jersey, was dropped as a Cessna dealer more than a year ago and quickly switched to commercial drone operation in addition to continuing as an aircraft dealer and service center. It is not one of the five dealers to be awarded a customer referral contract. Lincoln Park Aviation’s Frank R. Galella III has found a ready market among corporations and resorts, and was one of the first FAA-approved drone operators in the United States.
