Canadian venture capital investor Charles Bombardier has bought an equity stake in New Zealand LSA manufacturer Vickers Aircraft, the company announced today.
Bombardier, who is a member of the Bombardier aviation dynasty, bought into the Hamilton-based company as it gets closer to certification and deliveries of its Wave amphibious LSA.
"Charles serves as a Corporate Director for both Bombardier and BRP, two pioneering leaders in the aviation industry," said Vickers CEO Paul Vickers.
"We are honored that he has chosen to expand his aviation portfolio with Vickers Aircraft, recognizing in the Wave the same key success factors that have defined his decades of industry experience."
The partnership has prompted Bombardier to go onto the front foot, encouraging other investors to also bank-roll Vickers as it prepares to set up a manufacturing plant in the USA.
"Vickers Aircraft is currently offering a limited number of fully equipped Pioneer Series aircraft at attractive early-stage costing, model (2026)," Bombardier said. "If you're interested, I highly recommend reaching out to Paul Vickers to learn more about this rare opportunity.
"Vickers Aircraft is also raising US$5 million in capital to extend its runway and accelerate production. If you're an accredited investor with a passion for aviation innovation, I encourage you to contact Vickers Aircraft to explore this exciting investment opportunity.”
The Wave, a high-wing, single-engined amphibian fitted with a BRP-Rotax 916iS engine, has been in development in NZ for 15 years, but is yet to deliver an airframe to a customer.
Vickers has completed most of the design and flight testing work, and is expecting to start production test flying some time this year. Once certified, the company is looking to a future made in America.
"Initial aircraft deliveries will be fulfilled from our New Zealand facility, with a phased transition of component manufacturing to the US site thereafter," Vickers said.
"This strategic expansion will support our long-term production goals and enhance our ability to serve global markets more efficiently."