Enstrom Helicopter Corp., the storied helicopter manufacturer based in Menominee, Michigan, announced on Jan. 20 that it would cease operations and file for bankruptcy. Existing agreements and contracts with the company are null and void, according to a letter sent by the company to dealers and representatives, and technical support ceased on Jan. 19. In an interview with the local EagleHerald newspaper, Enstrom President Matt Francour attributed the closure to "financial difficulties" that were exacerbated by the pandemic. The closure represents the loss of 30 jobs and the end of the company's 65-year run. The company, which specialized in light training and military helicopters, built more than 1,300 aircraft since its founding by Rudy Enstrom in 1959. It was acquired by Chongqing General Aviation Industry Group (CGAG) in 2012. Francour said he was hopeful that the company's assets will be acquired out of bankruptcy, and that several potential buyers had expressed an interest in doing so.
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