1 May 2026
The future of Waco Aircraft is unknown after the owners, Dimor Group, closed the factory earlier this week but Dimor’s other brand, Junkers, is safe.
Dimor issued a statement overnight saying “[it] has made the difficult decision to cease its manufacturing operations and aircraft maintenance services based in Battle Creek, Michigan.
“Production of the Junkers A50 Junior, A50 Heritage and A60 aircraft will continue through the DIMOR Group’s sister entity in Oberndorf, Germany, where these aircraft will be manufactured and marketed worldwide.”
Junkers A50 Junior. Production will be concentrated in Germany
Dimor blamed production costs and a slow market for the decision.
“This decision was reached after careful deliberation,” continued Dimor’s statement.
“Rising production costs, coupled with ongoing limitations in market demand, rendered continued U.S. production unsustainable. Consequently, approximately 60 positions will be affected by the cessation of manufacturing operations in Battle Creek.”
Dimor Group also had the Great Lakes biplane in its portfolio
Waco sold four aircraft in 2025, according to the annual report from the General Aviation Manufacturers Association (GAMA), with a total value of $1.8m. That was for three Waco YMF-5 biplanes and one Junkers A50 Junior LSA.
Dimor Group acquired Waco Aircraft and Centennial Aircraft Services (an FBO which will continue to operate) in 2018.
Dimor said it extended “their sincerest gratitude to our dedicated employees in Battle Creek. Their craftsmanship, professionalism, and commitment to excellence have been integral to the success of our aircraft and operations.”
FLYER has asked Dimor what their plans are for the Waco brand and assets. The Group also has the Great Lakes aerobatic biplane in its portfolio though none were sold in 2025.
