Sonex Aviation reopens under new ownership

Sonex Aviation announced on Friday that it has reopened and is producing aircraft once again. Former owner Mark Schaible announced on March 27th that the company would be closing its doors effective immediately due to a severe drop-off in sales and the bank's unwillingness to carry forward the company's debts because of unprofitable years. The company is a kit aircraft, engine, accessories and unmanned aircraft manufacturer based in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Its list of aircraft includes the Sonex Onex, Highwing, JSX-2T and Waiex-B. Sonex announced on Jan. 23, 2026, the shipment of the Highwing's Tail Kits, with the shipments of the Fuselage Kit and Quick Build Kit being originally planned for later. All assets of Sonex have been acquired by ON Capital, led by aviator and general contractor Stephen Osborne. This includes Sonex Aerospace and AeroConversions line of products. The company will be recapitalizing the business and will reopen 21 days after the initial announcement. There are plans to streamline operations and improve production efficiency. "Stephen's team has the capital, the conviction, and the love of flight to take Sonex further than it has ever been," said Sonex founder John T. Monnett, Jr. "I'm proud to support this team going forward." RELATED STORIES: Sonex owner announces company is closing effective immediately Sonex announces first flight of Highwing kit aircraft Sonex Waiex built in one week at AirVenture 2022 delivered to National Air and Space Museum The statement also said that the Sonex High Wing tails kits will resume shipping in May 2026 with full kits expected to ship in the middle of summer. The factory will take a few weeks to be at full production, but the backlog is being cleared and 80 pre-orders for the High Wing are on the books. "My family has flown for three generations; its an absolute honor to carry on the proud legacy of the Sonex brand," said Osborne. "Sonex is part of how this country builds pilots and how everyday people get into the sky. Letting it disappear was never an option. To every customer with a deposit on the books - get your shop space ready. We are open, we are building, and your kit is coming."