Cirrus breaks ground on $8m Engine Run-Up Center

Cirrus Aircraft has broken ground on a 15,000-square-foot Engine Run-Up Center, designed to safely and efficiently test SR Series, Vision Jet, and TRAC10 engine system functionality, performance, and fuel calibration as part of the aircraft certification process.

Cirrus will invest over $8m in the facility, which will provide a centralized, enclosed, well-equipped, climate-controlled building year-round. The Run-Up Center is expected to be completed and operational in summer 2027.

The new facility will feature two calibration stalls where Cirrus technicians can set up, test and adjust engines during operation. A separate, safe, climate-controlled control room will support data analysis and remote adjustments. Air-handling equipment, including an eight-foot exhaust collector, will ventilate the stalls, while sound-control measures will reduce airport noise.

Fuel calibration will be supported by two additional stalls designed specifically for fueling and defueling aircraft. Technicians set and adjust fuel systems in a space designed for flammable fluids, with fire protection and under flammable fluid handling requirements.

Cirrus broke ground on its new 15,000-square-foot Engine Run-Up Center, an investment of over $8 million that will enhance aircraft engine and fuel calibration testing efficiency for the SR Series, Vision Jet, and TRAC10. The climate-controlled facility is expected to be operational by summer 2027.

“The Engine Run-Up Center represents another significant investment in Cirrus’ manufacturing capabilities and our commitment to operational excellence,” said Zean Nielsen, Chief Executive Officer of Cirrus.

“Engine run-ups and fuel system calibration are essential processes across aircraft manufacturing. This modern facility will allow us to streamline these critical operations, improve efficiency, and provide our team members with a dedicated environment to perform this work. As we continue to grow, investments like these strengthen our manufacturing infrastructure and position Cirrus to meet customer demand while maintaining high standards of quality and safety.”

Patrick Waddick, President of Innovation & Operations added, “The new Engine Run-Up Center expands Cirrus’ footprint of more than 1.3 million square feet, much of it in Duluth, where we have produced more than 12,000 SR Series and Vision Jet aircraft.”

“For decades, we have challenged conventions through innovations that have transformed personal aviation and elevated customer experience. This facility continues that tradition by providing a modern, purpose-built environment that enhances safety, supports a world-class employee experience and helps us deliver the quality, precision, and innovation our customers expect from Cirrus.”

Cirrus manufactures the SR Series, the world’s best-selling high-performance single-engine piston aircraft, and the Vision Jet, the world’s best-selling jet in General Aviation. The company recently announced the TRAC10, a purpose-built aircraft powered by a FADEC engine for professional flight schools. Cirrus aircraft are renowned for their innovative safety systems - the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) and Safe Return Emergency Autoland.

BlueSky Business Aviation News | 29th October 2026 | Issue #864