Schweizer Aircraft, the oldest privately owned aircraft manufacturer in the US, is to be bought by Sikorsky. The New York based company began operations in 1930, and now specialises in the light helicopter, reconnaissance aircraft and unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) markets.

Sikorsky president Steve Finger said the deal was a great strategic fit for Sikorsky, providing a skilled in-place workforce combined with immediate access to new markets. He said: “The purchase of Schweizer strengthens Sikorsky’s capabilities in the UAV field, whilst adding light rotorcraft and fixed-wing reconnaissance product lines to its portfolio will better position Sikorsky to compete in the fast-growing Homeland Security market.”

Whilst the terms of the acquisition have not been disclosed, the deal has been approved by both companies and is expected to close in the third quarter of this year. The Schweizer workforce and management team are expected to remain in place.