Cio Bulletin
Founded in 1986 by two passionate aircraft mechanics, Straight Flight, LLC has grown into a leading name in the aviation industry. Operating out of the Centennial Airport (KAPA) in Centennial, Colorado, the company now boasts three 18,000-square-foot hangars equipped with state-of-the-art tools and facilities. With decades of experience and a deep commitment to customer satisfaction, Straight Flight continues to set industry standards for aircraft repair, modification, and avionics services.
A Legacy of Expertise: From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leadership
Straight Flight began its journey as Rocky Mountain Straight Flight, Inc., a small venture with big dreams. Today, the company employs over 50 highly skilled professionals, each dedicated to delivering top-notch service. In 2007, Straight Flight became a wholly owned subsidiary of Sierra Nevada Corporation (SNC), enabling it to expand its operations and services even further. With FAA certification as a repair station since 1992 and European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) ratification in 2007, Straight Flight is recognized globally for its quality, safety, and innovation.
Comprehensive Aircraft Repair: Structural Expertise You Can Trust
Straight Flight specializes in major structural repairs, bringing over 35 years of expertise to every project. The team of FAA-certified engineers is capable of repairing all types of aircraft, from helicopters to fixed-wing models, including composite and metal structures. Straight Flight’s approach is innovative yet precise, maintaining original factory tolerances during major repairs to ensure aircraft integrity.
Their access to unique, custom repair fixtures and materials, often unavailable to others, sets them apart. Whether it's metal or composite parts, Straight Flight’s engineers and drafting team develop repair solutions that meet stringent aviation standards while keeping aircraft's operational efficiency intact.
Mastering Aircraft Alterations and Modifications
Straight Flight has been altering and modifying aircraft for more than three decades. Their impressive track record includes everything from custom one-time alterations to complex Supplemental Type Certificates (STCs) across multiple models. Notable achievements include establishing a new avionics flight tracking system certification on a Beech Queen Air and installing a motion picture camera gimbal on an Embraer Phenom 300 jet, used in the film "Top Gun II."
What sets Straight Flight apart is its ability to integrate engineering excellence with practical, real-world solutions. The internal drafting department enables real-time aircraft design and modeling, producing professional 2D drawings for every project. By working closely with independent FAA-certified engineers and engineering houses with FAA Organization Designation Authorization (ODA) certification, Straight Flight ensures each alteration or modification is executed to perfection.
Aircraft Composite Repair and Fabrication: Breaking Barriers with Cutting-Edge Technology
Straight Flight is an industry leader in aircraft composite repair and fabrication, certified as an FAA Class 1 Repair Station for composite repairs since 2009. Using advanced materials like fiberglass, Kevlar®, carbon fiber, and metal-to-metal bonding, the team can repair or fabricate new parts with unparalleled precision. Their expertise extends beyond Earth’s atmosphere, as they have also fabricated carbon fiber body panels for the SNC Dream Chaser® spaceplane, which is used by NASA. Their ability to innovate while maintaining factory standards ensures that customers receive the best possible outcomes for their composite repair needs.
Avionics: Straight Flight’s New Frontier
Although Straight Flight’s avionics department is relatively new, it’s already making significant strides in the industry. The company has invested heavily in state-of-the-art installation and test equipment, along with dealership agreements, training, and industry expertise. The avionics team specializes in everything from WiFi installation to upgrading displays, ensuring that aircraft are equipped with the latest technology for safe and efficient operation.
Whether it's RVSM, ADS-B, or EGPWS installations, Straight Flight's avionics specialists ensure the highest level of service and reliability. They work closely with customers to customize avionics solutions that meet the specific needs of each aircraft.
Dornier 328 Factory Authorized Service Center: A Name You Can Rely On
Straight Flight is also an authorized service center for Dornier 328 series aircraft, offering a wide range of services including Chapter 5 HUMP/LUMP inspections, structural repairs, engine inlet de-icer replacement, and more. The team uses factory-approved repair methods and specialized Dornier 328-specific tooling to maintain the highest quality standards. With factory-trained technicians and a commitment to excellence, Straight Flight ensures that every Dornier 328 aircraft is maintained to its full potential.
Building for the Future: A Vision of Growth and Innovation
Straight Flight’s commitment to innovation, quality, and customer satisfaction ensures a bright future for the company. As they continue to expand their services and capabilities, their focus remains on providing the best value for their clients.
Straight Flight, LLC remains an equal opportunity employer, fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. With over three decades of experience, the company is not just a leader in aircraft repairs, alterations, and avionics but also a beacon of innovation and reliability in the aviation industry.
Road Ahead
Straight Flight’s unmatched expertise, dedication to quality, and forward-thinking approach make them the go-to solution for aircraft repairs, modifications, and avionics. From their state-of-the-art facilities at Centennial Airport to their highly trained team of engineers and technicians, Straight Flight delivers value, efficiency, and reliability. Whether you're looking for structural repairs, custom modifications, or cutting-edge avionics, Straight Flight has the skills and experience to meet your needs. For over 35 years, Straight Flight has been a trusted partner in aviation, and their future looks even brighter.
Ernie Smith | Founder / Business Development