Duncan Aviation Layoffs Are First Ever

Benet Wilson benet_wilson@aviationweek.com

Lincoln, Neb.-based Duncan Aviation will lay off 304 workers, effective immediately, for the first time in its 53-year history.

The company blamed the economy, the credit crisis and the negative media and political campaign against business aviation. Duncan will cut 170 jobs in Lincoln, Neb., 122 in Battle Creek and Kalamazoo, Mich., and 12 in satellite offices across the country, leaving 1,874 workers.

"It has been a tough, emotional time for everyone with connections to Duncan Aviation," said Chairman Todd Duncan in a statement issued yesterday. "We have always been proud of being able to weather tough times with our work force intact. This recession, however, has been drastically different for our industry from any other recession we have seen. The sharp decline in flying by companies that own business aircraft combined with global business closings, reductions in spending and political grandstanding against our very livelihoods has created an environment that has left us no choice but to downsize."

Duncan Aviation had already announced a reduced workweek and pay cuts across the country, hoping the move could have avoided layoffs. The company does plan to move head with its expansion in Utah, originally announced in October 2008.

Photo: Duncan Aviation facility in Battle Creek, Mich.