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Minot, N.D. (AP) An aviation manufacturer that is getting $500,000 from Minot's economic development fund has run into delays testing its product.

Heliplane of Minneapolis plans to make air cargo trailers in Minot. The trailers would be towed by aircraft and guided by an unmanned aerial control system.

To get the full $500,000 loan, Heliplane by Saturday must produce confirmation of successful air testing from the Federal Aviation Administration or the military.

Heliplane says it experienced a delay when the owner of the company making its rotor system died, bringing the family owned business to a halt. Weather also has delayed the ability to test the prototype.

Heliplane plans to ask that the Saturday deadline be moved to Dec. 31.

Information from: Minot Daily News, http://www.minotdailynews.com (Copyright 2009 by The Associated Press. All Rights Reserved.) APNP 11-16-09 0806CST | save this article / add to your favorites list