Cirrus Aircraft has launched Cirrus Services, a customer-focused business unit created to build lifetime relationships with customers by addressing their needs before, during and after initial aircraft ownership. Combining the OEM's flight training, service and support units into a single company division, Cirrus Services is designed to deliver complete support and care for Cirrus Aircraft pilots, owners and operators.

“As Cirrus continues to grow aviation by bringing game-changing new personal aircraft to the market, most recently with the Vision Jet, we recognise the importance of bringing that same innovation to developing a premium, comprehensive and lifetime Cirrus ownership experience,” says president, customer experience Todd Simmons. “Now Cirrus Services streamlines our ability to deliver on that promise, as the new group serves to focus enterprise talent and resources on delivering world-class care to make owning a Cirrus rewarding, safe and simple for a lifetime.”

Building on the success of programmes such as Cirrus Approach, Cirrus Embark and JetStream, the launch of Cirrus Services marks another milestone as the company continues to redefine general aviation by providing world-class customer service for life through training, service and more. This newly formed group will focus on growing capabilities and offerings at the company's expanding Vision Center Campus in Knoxville, Tennessee, including the recently opened flight training centre and Level D full-motion Vision Jet simulator, as well as through a network of authorised service and training partners across the globe.

The company has selected Ravi Dharnidharka to lead this transformative addition to its customer experience team as senior vice president, Cirrus Services. Dharnidharka joined Cirrus Aircraft in 2016 as senior vice president, business development. Previously he served as director of business development for Senior Aerospace Ketema where he led strategic planning and execution of business growth functions. He has also worked in business development with UTC Aerospace Systems focusing on aftermarket services for global airlines.

“Our goal is to welcome more people into general aviation by significantly elevating the entire customer experience,” he says. “Cirrus Aircraft is already known for an exemplary new aircraft sales and delivery experience and we're excited to combine our collective talents into a fully integrated team dedicated to continuing that world-class experience throughout the lifetime of ownership.”

Dharnidharka is a lifelong aviation enthusiast and an active pilot. In his early career he served with the US Marine Corps as a fighter pilot, with experience flying the AV8B Harrier and F5N Tiger II, and continues to serve as a lieutenant colonel with the US Marine Corps Reserve. He holds an MBA from the University of Southern California and a Bachelor's of Science degree in Aeronautical Science from Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University.