EDGEWOOD, NY — CPI Aerostructures, Inc. announced that it has been classified as an essential business by New York State and is exempt from the state’s mandate that all non-essential New York businesses close until further notice.

The New York state exemption follows the statement issued by the Under Secretary of Defense for Acquisition and Sustainment on Friday, March 20 declaring that defense contractors are critical infrastructure to national security. CPI Aero, a manufacturer of structural assemblies for fixed wing aircraft, helicopters and airborne intelligence surveillance and reconnaissance pod systems in both the commercial aerospace and national security market, is a contractor to the U.S. Department of Defense, primarily the Air Force.

“The well-being of our employees is our top priority, and, to that end, we have taken steps to safeguard their health in compliance with recommendations and protocols established by public health organizations and state and local public health departments,” states Douglas McCrosson, president and CEO of CPI Aero. “While we continue to monitor ever changing impacts from COVID-19, I want to recognize the dedication of our employees as they support our national security mission during these difficult times. Because of them, we are open for business.”