Operating Segments:
HQ: Horseheads, New York
Partner: Sikorsky Aircraft
About Schweizer Aircraft
Schweizer Aircraft was founded in 1939 by the three Schweizer brothers, Paul, William, and Ernest. Schweizer's initial offerings were gliders, such as the SGP 1-1, and were eventually adopted as trainers by the US Army Air Corps. In the 1950s, Schweizer diversified into producing powered aircraft, such as the G-164 Ag Cat, and in 1986 acquired rights for Hughes helicopter designs from McDonnell Douglas. Schweizer helicopters would go on to become some of the most widely-used training helicopters in the world. In 2004, Schweizer was acquired Sikorsky Aircraft corporation, and became a diversified aerospace company. In 2012, United Technology Corporation, the owner of Sikorsky at the time, decided to shut down Schweizer, with the company laying off its staff and shutting down production in December of that year.
Products, Services, and Platforms
Products
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Sailplanes (gliders): Schweizer produced numerous models of unpowered sailplanes, primarily in one and two-seater configurations. Schweizer sailplanes were used in a variety of roles, including training for militaries, civilian recreation, and competitive gliding.
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Helicopters: Through its acquisition of Hughes Helicopter designs from McDonnell Douglas, Schweizer produced the 300C, 300CBi, S-333, and S-434. These are all light, single-engine helicopters designed primarily for civilian purposes.
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Other Aircraft: Schweizer manufactured the Grumman G-164 biplane agricultural aircraft under contract from Grumman from 1957 to 1981. Schweizer also produced reconnaissance aircraft like the SA 2-37A and 2-37B for the US military, and participated in the development of the MQ-8 Fire Scout helicopter UAV and Sikorsky's X-2 Demonstrator.
Subsidiaries/Partners
Prior to its dissolution, Schweizer's partner was its parent company, Sikorsky, as well as Sikorsky's owner United Technology Corporation.
Competitors
Schweizer's competitors included Eurocopter, AugustaWestland, Bell, MD Helicopters, and others.