Cirrus Aircraft completes merger with Chinese aircraft manufacturer

DULUTH, Minn. — Cirrus Aircraft, a major manufacturer of airplanes for general aviation, said Tuesday it has completed a merger in which it has become part of China Aviation Industry General Aircraft Co. Ltd.

Brent Wouters, president and chief executive officer of Cirrus, said he hopes the China company’s resources will help boost Cirrus’ production, sales and employment in the United States, as well as expansion of its international sales. The company builds its planes in Minnesota and North Dakota and has delivered nearly 5,000 piston-powered aircraft in the last decade.