2007 POCKET GUIDE TO BUSINESS AIRCRAFT - …aerotechsmart.com/yahoo_site_admin/assets/docs/Flight_2007_Pocket... · 2007 POCKET GUIDE TO BUSINESS AIRCRAFT ALAN PEAFORD SUPPORTED BY.

2007 POCKET GUIDETO

BUSINESSAIRCRAFT

ALAN PEAFORD

SUPPORTED BY

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The cover image shows the exciting Piaggio P180Avanti II in action as VIP transport with the Italian airforce. Here five of the aircraft - fitted with RockwellCollins Proline 21 avionics – fly in formation.Fr

ont C

over

BUSINESSaviation is probably at its most exciting since the day theworld woke up to Bill Lear’s concept that led to the

coining of the phrase “jetsetter.” In 2006 some 13 business aircraft receivedcertification or were first delivered to customers – as we enter 2007 there areclose to another 20 business aircraft in serious development.

This pocket book was created to bring together all of the aircraft that areregularly used for business and corporate purposes – and to look too atthose aircraft in development that should see certification within the nextcouple of years.

The book wouldn’t have been possible without the support of RockwellCollins Inc. During the research phase of this 2007 edition the name RockwellCollins kept popping up as manufacturers talked of development andimprovement in both cockpit and cabin technologies. The Cedar Rapids’company develops smart communications and aviation electronics solutionsand it is clear that its technology and innovation has been put to good work inadvancing the goals of business aircraft manufacturers around the world. Weare proud that the company wanted to be part of this project.

I would also like to acknowledge the assistance of the marketing andcommunication professionals at the aircraft manufacturers who havepainstakingly dealt with our enquiries to help us ensure the accuracy of thedata used in the book.

Producing this pocket guide is a team effort and I would especially like toacknowledge the great effort of Philip Nasskau who broke away from his attemptto start a career as a commercial pilot in order to do a great job as my technicalresearcher and editorial assistant; and to colleagues from the Flight Internationaland Flight Evening News teams who contributed so much. I would particularly liketo thank the wonderful Kate Sarsfield, Business Aviation editor, Flight, for her wisecounsel and enthusiastic support; and the talented Giuseppe “Joe” Picarella andTim Brown for their skills and enthusiasm that produces such masterpieces as thecutaways you will find at the start of each section. The originals – and more – canbe found on the www.flightglobal.com website.

We hope you will find this book of use and would welcome your suggestionsfor additions and revisions for next year’s edition.

Safe – and comfortable – landings.

Alan Peaford, NBAA, October 2006.

Foreword

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First edition published in 2006 by Aerocomm

Aerocomm LtdThe Gatehouse

104, Lodge LaneGrays

Essex RM16 2ULUK

www.aerocomm.co.uk

www.flightglobal.com

Copyright © Aerocomm Ltd, Publishers. 2006

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrievalsystem, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical,

photocopying, recording or otherwise without the prior written permission of thepublishers and copyright holders.

ISBN: 0-9554195-0-6 and 978-0-9554195-0-8

Aerocomm acknowledges with gratitude the provision of imagery by the manufacturerswith whom the copyright for their photographs remains.

Designed in the UK by Chris Murray, Allsortz LtdPrinted and bound by Newnorth Ltd of Bedford, England

A E R O C O M M

4 5

LIGHT JET AIRCRAFT

This category covers businessjets with a useful load of morethan 5,000lbs but less than10,000lbs. The first chapter is forthe classic light jet with a usefulload of less than 7,500lbs withthe second chapter as the “Super Light Jets” over 7,500lbs.

Chapter 8 Light Jets 130

Cessa Citation BravoCessna Citation CJ3Cessna Citation Encore +Embraer Phenom 300Grob SPnHawker 400 XPLearjet 40 XRSino Swearingen SJ30

Chapter 9 Super light Jets 148

Cessna Citation XLSLearjet 45 XR

MID-SIZE JETS

The Mid-Size Jets are determinedby having a useful load of between10,000lbs and 20,000lbs and /or amaximum take off weight (MTOW)in excess of 20,000 lbs. The firstchapter deals with class Mid-Size Jetsbelow 15,000lbs and the Super Mid-Size deals with aircraft over 15,000lbsor with a much greater MTOW.

Chapter 10 Mid-Size Jets 154

Cessna Citation SovereignGulfstream G150Embraer Legacy 600Hawker 850XPLearjet 60 XR

Chapter 11 Super Mid-Size Jets 164

Bombardier Challenger 300Cessna Citation X Dassault Falcon 50EXGulfstream G200Hawker 4000

LARGER BUSINESS JETS

This category covers the top of therange business aircraft all withuseful loads exceeding 20,000lbsor an MTOW exceeding 40,000lbsand falls into three chapters. Thefirst is for Large Jets, the secondSuper-Large Jets with extracapacity or range and the third isfor the Ultra Long Range Jets

Chapter 12 Large Jets 178

Bombardier Challenger 605Dassault Falcon 2000DXDassault Falcon 2000EXGulfstream G350

Chapter 13 Super Large Jets 188

Bombardier Global 5000Dassault Falcon 900DXDassault Falcon 900EXGulfstream G450

Chapter 14 Ultra Long Range Jets 198

Bombardier Global Express XRSDassault Falcon 7X Gulfstream G500Gulfstream G550

AIRLINERS AND SUPERSONIC JETS

The Airliner aircraft tend to bedirect modifications of existing air

transport platforms. But this sectionalso covers the ultimate top-of-the-range business jet - supersonicaircraft under development.

Chapter 15 Airliners and SupersonicBusiness Jets 208

Airbus A318 EliteAirbus ACJAirbus A320 PrestigeBoeing Business Jet Boeing BBJ2Boeing BBJ3Bombardier Challenger 800Dornier 328Jet Embraer Lineage 1000Aerion SBJ

BUSINESS AIRCRAFTMANUFACTURERS

Chapter 16 Company Profiles 232

Adam AircraftAgustaWestlandAirbusBellBoeing Business JetsBombardierBritten NormanCessna DassaultEADS SocataEclipse AviationEmbraerEpicEurocopterEviationExtraFarnborough AircraftGulfstreamHondaHoneywell(New) PiperPiaggioPilatusQuestRaytheonRockwell CollinsSikorskySino SwearingenSpectrum

INDEX OF AIRCRAFT 240

Foreword 3

INDUSTRY OVERVIEW

Chapter 1: The business aviation market into 2007 6

BUSINESS AIRCRAFT INPRODUCTION OR ADVANCED DEVELOPMENT

HELICOPTERS AND OTHER ROTORCRAFT

Chapter 2 Rotorcraft 8

AgustaWestland A109 Power/GrandAgustaWestland A119 KoalaAgustaWestland AW139AgustaWestland EH101 MerlinBell 206B-3 JetRangerBell 206L4 LongRangerBell 407Bell 412EPBell 427Bell 429 GlobalRangerBell 430BellAgusta BA609Eurocopter AS350B2/B3 EcureuilEurocopter AS355NP Ecureuil 2Eurocopter EC120B Colibri Eurocopter EC130B4 Ecureil Eurocopter EC135 P2i/T2iEurocopter EC145Eurocopter EC155 B1 DauphinEurocopter EC225 Super PumaSikorsky S-76C++Sikorsky S-92

PISTON POWERED AIRCRAFT

Chapter 3 Piston Aircraft 54

Adam Aircraft A500Beechcraft BaronPiper Seneca V

TURBOPROP AIRCRAFT

Chapter 4 Turboprops 62

Beechcraft 1900DBeechcraft King Air B200Beechcraft King Air C90GTBeechcraft King Air 350BN-2T IslanderCessna Caravan 675Cessna Grand Caravande Havilland Twin Otter 400EADS Socata TBM-850Epic Aircraft EpicLTExtra EA 500Farnborough Aircraft F1 KestrelGrob G160 RangerPiaggio P180 Avanti IIPilatus PC-12 Piper MeridianQuest Kodiak

VERY LIGHT JET AIRCRAFT

Aircraft in this category have jetengines and a useful load of lessthan 5,000lbs. The first chapterdeals with aircraft that are aimed atowner-pilots; the second chapter isfor Ultra Light VLJs - aircraftprimarily aimed at the air-taximarket with useful load of lessthan 3,500lbs and no separationbetween cockpit and main cabin.The third chapter is for aircraft thatwould be described as very light or“entry-level” business jets.

Chapter 5 Personal Jets 98

ATG JavelinDiamond Aircraft D-JetExcel-Jet Sport-Jet

Chapter 6 Ultra Light Jets 106

Adam Aircraft A700Eclipse 500

Chapter 7 Very Light Jets 112

Beechcraft Premier IACessna Citation CJ1+Cessna Citation CJ2+Cessna Citation MustangEviation Jets EV20 VantageEmbraer Phenom 100HondaJetSpectrum 33

The performance and specification data given in thepocket guide are provided from manufacturers’figures where available and are subject to change.■ Rate of climb is shown at standard MTOW using

all available engines.■ Take off distance is shown at Sea Level, ISA,

MTOW to clear 50’ obstacle.

■ Landing distance is shown at Sea Level, ISA,MLW, to clear 50’ obstacle with nil reverse

■ Max range is shown as full fuel with an averagepassenger load . The total number of passengersand crew from the figures is shown inparenthesis.

■ Weight figures are shown as Standard MTOW.

Contents

P E R F O R M A N C E A N D S P E C I F I C A T I O N D A T A

7

The Asia/Africa/Middle East region once againranks as the area with the highest purchaseexpectations which grew for the fourthconsecutive year to a record level exceeding 50percent – the highest reading in the history ofthe survey. Confidence in Asian economicgrowth is also boosting interest in longer-rangeaircraft with state of the art avionics.

North America is expected to account forabout 61 percent of business jet deliveriesover the next five years,

But it is the issue over the VLJnomenclature that will lead the fightingground. The VLJ sector will stratify into two,or possibly three, segments that reflect notonly the size of the aircraft, but also theirprice, performance and target market. Thedivisions are becoming evident as the orderbooks for these new small jets begin to build.

In this book I have segmented them intoPersonal Jets – a real entry-level jet, if not anentry-level business jet where we shall seecompanies such as Cirrus following the lead ofDiamond in offering an aircraft that is a naturalstep up from the turboprop recreational owner-pilot who may still fly for business purposes.Honeywell argues that there is a cut-offbetween the classic very-light and the ultra-light jets (such as the Eclipse 500 and the Adam700) which is around the $2-2.5 million mark.Honeywell’s survey indicates a potential 10-yeardemand from corporate flight departments forup to 1,000 ultra light jets, but this is dwarfedby the 4000 aircraft expected to be delivered toowner-pilots over the same period.

The total excludes any demand fromfractional-ownership or air-taxi operators.

Embraer’s forecast of 2,515 VLJ deliveriesbetween 2006 and 2016 covers aircraftranging from the D-Jet to the Phenom 100,and so is not directly comparable withHoneywell’s. The total also excludes the air-taxi market, which the Brazilianmanufacturer tentatively estimates at 2,500-3,000 aircraft over the 10-year period.

Canadian manufacturer Bombardier also

published its market forecast predicting atleast 600 aircraft a year for the industryexcluding air taxis and fractional operators.Bombardier suggests that the entry into themarket of aircraft such as the Eclipse, theMustang and others could grow thetraditional market. Bombardier’s JamesHoblyn said “It should bring more peopleinto wanting jets and there is naturalprogression. More than eighty percent ofbusiness jet buyers are existing owners; thegrowth comes from new demand which canbe in other countries or as people movefrom chartering into owning aircraft.”

Bombardier sees increasing demand fromnew international markets such as China andRussia. “We are now at the position wherehalf our business is from North America andthe other half from the rest of the world.The industry generally has 60% of sales inNorth America. We believe that the emergingeconomies will be creating a new call ofpotential buyers.”

Whatever way you look at it from thehumblest of piston engined aircraft, throughpowerful turboprops, to large corporatehelicopters, personal air taxis, business jetsand immaculate air palaces inside the frameof a converted airliner, Business Aviation in2007 will thrive. ALAN PEAFORD

BEHIND THE SCENES THEINDUSTRY IS WORKING ATCREATING GREATERDIFFERENTIATION BETWEEN THECATEGORIES OR CLASS OFBUSINESS AIRCRAFT TRAVEL.

‘‘ ‘‘6

THEweek that a foiled terrorist plot inLondon brought chaos to the

transatlantic commercial air transport world, Iwas stepping on to a Hawker 800 I hadchartered from Club 328 at London’s BigginHill to join friends and family in Florence, Italy.

Although there was increased security atthe executive terminal, the flight took off ontime, landed ahead of time and the fasttrack treatment with the airport’s FBO teammeant we were where we were supposed tobe when we were supposed to be there.

Across the world charter operatorsreported increased enquiries and bookings –some by as much as 30 percent.

If the terrorists achieved one thing, theyhave taken down the barrier that led manyindustrialists and corporations – particularly inEurope – to resist the strong argument to makeuse of business and corporate aviation services.

Business in the USA has long recognisedthe advantage of the business aircraft. NowEurope and particularly Russia are buyinginto that message in a big way.

As we enter 2007, it is against a backdropof excitement and optimism in the businessaircraft industry.

Honeywell whose market forecast has setthe scene for the industry planning for thepast 15 years is describing 2007 as a banner

1Business Aviationis facing a record year

year. 2006 was already a record year but thePhoenix-headquartered company isprojecting 1,000 new aircraft to be deliveredin 2007 and 12,000 business jets over thenext ten years, generating industry sales ofUS$195 billion at today’s prices.

Honeywell’s Business Aviation Outlooktracks purchase expectations for businessjets with gross take-off weight (GTOW) ofless than 100,000lbs down to the entry leveljets. At this point the forecast does not takeinto account the new revolutionary VeryLight Jets (VLJ) that could be set to do whatHenry Ford did for the automobile industry.

There is still a disconnect between manyin the industry and those revolutionariessuch as Eclipse Aviation’s Vern Raeburn whobelieve that affordable, mass-produced,small business jets will do more for SMEsthan the traditional business jets have donefor the larger corporations.

Some manufacturers are adopting a “waitand see” approach. One industry analyst told methat this smacks of the same approach that theAmerican automobile industry had when itignored the entry of Japanese cars to its market.But behind the scenes the industry is working atcreating greater differentiation between thecategories or class of business aircraft travel.

Business aviation will never be insulatedfrom economic cycles, but it’s clear thatmanufacturers help stimulate demand withnew models incorporating advances inaviation technology. Improved engines,safety systems, cockpit avionics and cabininformation and comfort improvementsalong with advances in aerodynamic designcan deliver compelling gains in value to fleetoperators, pilots and passengers.

Honeywell’s forecast found that like the2005 survey findings, European operatorsreported a particularly strong increase inexpectations to purchase additional versusreplacement aircraft for their fleets, anindication of overall confidence amongoperators in the region.

Outlook

8 9

RotorcraftHelicopter manufacturers have long realised that the businessand corporate market is worth investing time and effort in.The top-of-the range rotorcraft are fitted with cabins built tothe same quality and comfort as the best of the business jets.More and more charterers are looking at combining therotorcraft with fixed wing in their offering.This chapter looks at the whole range of corporate helicopterson the market.

■ Sikorsky’s S92 is one of those top of the range helicoptersthat offer everything for a head-of-state aircraft. Artist Tim Hall.© Flight International – for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

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Rotorcraft

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AGUSTAWESTLAND A109 POWER/GRAND

THEPower is a lightweight twin enginemultipurpose helicopter capable of

single pilot IFR operation. The A109 has always been a fast

helicopter and the Power is no exception,able to cruise at 154ktas (285km/h) itfeatures retractable landing gear and twoengine choices.

Two Pratt & Whitney PW206C provide640shp (477kW) each at take-off, oralternatively two Turbomeca Arrius 2K-1providing 670shp (500kW) each can befitted.

The Grand, designated the A109S Grand,is a stretched Power – offering an extra 8”(20cm) in cabin length. The aircraft’s MTOWhas also been boosted by 717lbs (325kg)and its useful load from 2,822lbs (1,280kg)to 3,373lbs (1,530kg).

The Grand is powered by two Pratt &Whitney PW207C providing 735shp (548kW)each, and able to cruise at 155ktas (288km/h).

However the increased payloads andmore powerful engines only allow it to fly arange of 480nm (890km) compared to the512nm (948km) of the Power.

Length 37' 7" (fuselage) 42' 9" (rotors running) 11.45m / 13.04mMain Rotor Diameter 36' 1" 11mHeight 11' 6" 3.50mCabin Length 6' 10" 2.10mCabin Width 5' 3" 1.61mCabin Height 4' 2" 1.28mMax Range 512nm 948kmMax Seating 1 + 7Typical Seating 1 + 5Powperplant 2x P&W PW206C or 640SHP/477kW each (Take off Power)

2x Turbomeca Arrius 2K-1 670SHP/500kW each (Take off power)Max Cruise Speed 154ktas 285km/hMax Ceiling 19,600ft 5,974mRate of Climb 1,930fpm 588mpmTake off Distance 0Landing Distance 0MTOW 6,283lbs 2,850kgMax Landing Weight 6,283lbs 2,850kgUseful load 2,822lbs 1,280kgPayload with full fuel 1,281lbs 581kgPrice

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEThe first A109 flew in August 1971 poweredby two Allison 250-C20 turbines and sincethen has been upgraded for many missionspecific roles - the latest A109 is the A109EPower. The Power first flew in February1995 and was certified in August 1996,based on the A-109K-2, which wasdeveloped as a civilian police, search andrescue version, for high altitude and hightemperature operations. It also featuresstrengthened landing gear and improvedmain rotor.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The A109 Power is very sleek, has a four blade main rotor with a single large cabin door andwindow each side and looks nearly identical to the Grand. However, it is shorter than the A109Grand but both have a curved scimitar look tail fin. An A109 can be recognised by the main gear –the gear retracts into a pod which is mounted on the side of the fuselage and has a panel coveringthe main strut. The Grand has two windows on each side set in the cabin doors.

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Rotorcraft

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AGUSTAWESTLAND A119 KOALA

THEA119 Koala is an eight seat singleturbine helicopter designed to

provide high productivity and performancewith one of the largest cabin widths in itsclass – 5’ 6” (1.67m).

Powered by the ultra reliable Pratt &Whitney PT6B-37A with 1,002shp (747kW)the Koala will lift 1,304lbs (591kg) with fullfuel and has a range of 535nm (991km).

The Koala is capable of performingmany roles other than that of corporatetransport. It can be fitted with a doubleEMS stretcher interior, is also in service

Length 38.48ft (fuselage) 42.68ft (rotors running) 11.73m/13.01mMain Rotor Diameter 35' 6" 10.83mHeight 12' 4" 3.77mCabin Length 6' 10" 2.10mCabin Width 5' 6" 1.67mCabin Height 4' 2" 1.28mMax Range 535nm 991kmMax Seating 1 + 7Typical Seating 1 + 6Powerplant 1x P&W PT6B-37A 1,002SHP / 747kW Max Cruise Speed 139KTAS 257km/hMax Ceiling >20,000ft >6,096mRate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 5,997lbs 2,720kgMax Landing Weight 5,997lb 2,720kgUseful load 2,845lbs 1,293kgPayoad with full fuel 1,304lb 591kgPrice

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEMore than 90 Koala’s have been orderedworldwide. The Koala made its first flight in1995 powered by a Turbomeca Arriel 1, butwas subsequently replaced. Certificationwas awarded in 1998 and the first customerdelivery occurred in September 2000.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The Koala has a large rectangular window on the cabin doors with a small oblong porthole behind,mounted on skids and features a four blade main rotor with the sleek lines found the A109 – and likethe A109 features a curved scimitar look tail fin.

with various police forces, and fire attacksystems are available.

It is also possible to have emergency popout floats fitted to the skids for anyprolonged flights over water.

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Rotorcraft

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AGUSTAWESTLAND AW139

THEAW139 is a 15 seat medium twin engine helicopter featuring a fully articulated fiveblade main rotor and retractable undercarriage. Powered by two Pratt & Whitney

PT6C-67C, 1,679shp (1,252kW) each, is able to cruise at 167ktas (310km/h) and lift 3,357lbs(1,522kg) – which equates to 210lbs (95kg) of payload for each passenger in high densityconfiguration – at full fuel for a range of 306nm (568km).

The AW139 has the Honeywell Primus Epic fitted as standard and is certified for IFRoperations, a 4-axis autopilot is an option over the standard 3-axis.

Length 54' 8" (rotors running) 16.66mMain Rotor Diameter 45' 3" 13.8mHeight 16' 3" 4.95mCabin Length 8' 10" 2.70mCabin Width 6' 10" 2.10mCabin Height 4' 8" 1.42mMax Range 306nm 568kmMax Seating 2 + 15Typical Seating 1 + 6Powperplant 2x P&W PT6C-67C 1,679SHP/1,252kW eachAvionics Honeywell Primus EpicMax Cruise Speed 167ktas 310km/hMax Ceiling 19,460ft 5,931mRate of Climb 2,140fpm 654mpmTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 14,112lbs 6,400kgMax Landing Weight 14,112lbs 6,400kgUseful load 6,124lbs 2,778kgPayload with full fuel 3,357lbs 1,522kgPrice

SPECIFICATIONHERITAGE

Originally developedas a joint venture withBell under thedesignation of AB139,but in November 2005Bell withdrew leavingthe Anglo-Italianmanufacturer tomarket the aircraftalone. AW139 firstflew in February 2001was certified in Italyin June 2003 and FAAcertification wasawarded in December2004. AgustaWestlandhas orders for 190helicopters of which30 have beendelivered at the timeof going to press.

BELL/AGUSTA AB139 SPOTTER’S GUIDE

AW139 has a five blade main rotor, a four blade canted tail rotor and features three cabin windowseach side, of which two are on the large sliding cabin doors. The retractable undercarriage is podmounted on the fuselage, and the rear tailplane has winglets.

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AGUSTAWESTLAND EH101 MERLIN

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Rotorcraft

THEEH101 Merlin was primarily designedas a military helicopter but following

certification by the FAA for civil useAgustaWestland is offering the aircraft for VIPor business shuttle operations. The aircraft –under the designation US101 has beenselected as the US Presidential helicopter.

This is a heavy three engine helicopter ableto seat 30 passengers in a high densityconfiguration while a corporate interior iscustom designed upon purchase with a typicalinstallation seating fourteen passengers.

The Merlin is powered by three GeneralElectric CT7-8Es producing 2,527SHP(1,884kW) each and allow a maximum take-off weight of 34,392lbs (15,600kg) with auseful load of 11,905lbs (5,600kg).

The EH101 has retractable tricycleundercarriage – the main gear stows in podsmounted externally on the fuselage, with a fiveblade composite main rotor it is capable of amaximum cruise speed of 150ktas (278km/h).

HERITAGEThe EH101 was a new design and a jointventure from Agusta and Westland beforethey merged – originally the company wascalled Elicottero Helicopter Industries andthe EH101 designation was apparently atypographical error from EHI-01. The first civil configured EH101 first flew inSeptember 1988, whilst the first productionaircraft – destined for Britain’s Royal Navy -first flew in December 1995. Presentlyover 100 have been delivered.

SPOTTER’S GUIDEThe EH101 can be recognised from the threeengines which are mounted on top of thefuselage – the exhausts of the left and rightengines angle down and outwards, whilstthe central exhaust is straight. The mainrotor has five blades and the tips are sweptwith anhedral. It has a four blade tail rotormounted on the left hand side of the tail.

Length 64' (fuselage) 74’ 10” (rotors running) 19.53m/22.80mMain Rotor Diameter 61' 18.60mHeight 21’ 9” 6.62mCabin Length 21’ 4” 6.50mCabin Width 8’ 2” 2.49mCabin Height 6’ 1.83mMax Range 540nm 1,000kmMax Seating 2 + 30Typical Seating 2 + 14Powerplant 3x GE CT7-8E 2,527SHP/1,884kW eachMax Cruise Speed 150KTAS 278km/hMax CeilingRate of Climb 2,788fpm 852mpmTake off Distance xLanding Distance xMTOW 34,392lbs 15,600kgMax Landing WeightUseful load 11,905lbs 5,600kgPayload with full fuelPrice

SPECIFICATION

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Rotorcraft

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BELL 206B-3 JETRANGER

THEBell JetRanger is one of thebest selling and successful

helicopters in the world. As well asbeing a ubiquitous charter helicopter,the JetRanger has been widelyrecognised as the key entry levelsingle engine turbine helicopter.

It is a five seat aircraft with athree seat bench in the rearpassenger cabin and seating for apilot and co-pilot/passenger in thecockpit.

Powered by a single Rolls-Royce250-C20J 420shp (313kW) theJetRanger has a useful load of1,487lbs (674kg) and is able to cruiseat a maximum speed of 115ktas(213km/h) for 374nm (693km).

HERITAGEThe 206 design originated in the mid-1960s asan entry in a United States Army competition fora light observation (scout) helicopter. This first Model 206 made its first flight onDecember 8 1962. The civil variant the 206A,powered by a 317shp (235kW) Allison C18A,first flew in January 1966. Although Bell lost the contract, the Model 206A

JetRanger entered the civilian market in 1966.The Model 206 has been updated several times,with the 206B "JetRanger II" arriving in 1971 andthe 206B-3 "JetRanger III" with modified tailrotor and more powerful engine coming in 1977. The basic shape and fundamental design remainunchanged since 1966. Over 7,700 military and civil JetRangers havebeen built and have logged in excess of38million flight hours.

Length 32' 5" (fuselage) 39' 2" (running) 9.88m / 11.95mMain Rotor Diameter 33' 5" 10.18mHeight 8' 4" 2.53mCabin Length 3' 3" 0.99mCabin Width 3' 11" 1.2mCabin Height 4' 3" 1.30mMax Range 374nm 693k/mhMax Seating 1 + 4Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x Rolls-Royce 250-C20J 420shp/313kW Max Cruise Speed 115ktas 213km/hMax Ceiling 13,200ft 4,023mRate of Climb 1,350fpm 411mpmTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 3,200lbs 1,451kgMax Landing Weight 3,200lbs 1,451kgUseful load 1,487lbs 674kgPayload with full fuel 877lbs 398kgPrice

SPECIFICATION

The JetRanger has atwo bladed main andtail rotor. The mainrotor is mounted on aprominent mast. Theskid landing gear canbe of low or high stepdesign. The enginehas two exhaustswhich are mountedvertically behind themain rotor mast witha 90º bend to face therear. It has a largewindow each side onthe cabin doors and ahorizontal stabiliser ismid-mounted halfwayalong the tailboom.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

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Rotorcraft

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BELL 206L4 LONGRANGER

THEstretched cabin of the BellLongRanger can seat

five passengers, a pilot and co-pilot/passenger, and is increasinglypopular with helicopter chartercompanies.

Powered by a single Rolls-Royce250-C30P providing 726shp (541kW) itis effectively a stretched JetRangeroffering two extra seats. It has a usefulload of 2,141lbs (971kg) and a range of357nm (661km) and a maximum cruisespeed of 112ktas (207km/h).

It offers a longer cabin than theJetRanger – 8’ 6” (2.59m) with clubseating for five.

HERITAGEThe 206L was developed from the 5 seat JetRanger.The first 206L flew in September 1974, andproduction began in early 1975. The LongRangerintroduced a more powerful engine and atransmission suspension system for greaterpassenger comfort.

SPOTTER’S GUIDEThe LongRanger is a stretched JetRanger but isnoticeably different by the engine exhaust – a largeoval single exhaust replaces the two smaller of theJetRanger, and its increased length. The addedlength allows for two windows either side. It hasvertical fins of winglet type style on the midmounted horizontal stabilisers.

Length 34' 7" (fuselage) 42' 5" (rotor running) 10.55m / 12.92mMain Rotor Diameter 39' 11.89mHeight 10' 3.04mCabin Length 5’ 1.5mCabin Width 3' 11’ 1.2mCabin Height 3' 11’ 1.2mMax Range 357nm 661kmMax Seating 1 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x Rolls-Royce 250-C30P 726shp/541kWMax Cruise Speed 112ktas 207km/hMax Ceiling 10,000ft 3,048m +Rate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 4,450lbs 2,018kgMax Landing Weight 4,450lbs 2.018kgUseful load 2,141lbs 971kgPayload with full fuel 1,388lbs 629kgPrice

SPECIFICATION

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Rotorcraft

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BELL 407

THE407 is a light single turbineengine helicopter capable of

seating seven passengers. Powered by a FADEC equipped Rolls-

Royce 250-C47B producing 813shp(606kW) it can cruise at a maximum speedof 133ktas (246km/h).

The Bell 407 can lift a useful load of2,347lbs (1,065kg) – even with full fuel theremaining payload (1,784lbs – 810kg)would allow all seven seats to be filled andgive a 254lb (115kg) allowance per seat.

The Bell 407 is able to cover 330nm(612km) and transport the occupants in a5’ (1.5m) long and 3’ 11” (1.2m) wide cabinin club configuration – this represents anextra 1’ 9” (0.51m) in cabin length over theJetRanger.

Typically it would carry the pilot andfour or five passengers.

HERITAGEThe 407 is an evolutionary development ofthe 206 LongRanger – it first flew in 1995.The 407 concept demonstrator mated theLongRanger's fuselage with the tail boomand the dynamic systems of the OH58DKiowa (military 206 which has beenextensively modified) – primarily because ofthe composite four blade main rotor systemwhich provides a smoother ride andgenerates more lift efficiently.A successor, The Bell 417, is currently underdevelopment in the USA. Featuring a Cheltonglass cockpit the new derivative is duecertification early in 2008.

SPOTTER’S GUIDEVery similar to the JetRanger and LongRangeraircraft but the most recognisable differencesare the four bladed main rotor blades and theswept vertical fins on the horizontal stabilisers.

Length 34’ 8" (fuselage) 41' 5"(rotor running) 10.57m/12.61mMain Rotor Diameter 35’ 10.66mHeight 10' 2" 3.10mCabin Length 5’ 1.5mCabin Width 3' 11’ 1.2mCabin Height 3' 11’ 1.2mMax Range 330nm 612kmMax Seating 1 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x Rolls-Royce 250-C47B 813shp/606kWMax Cruise Speed 133ktas 246km/hMax Ceiling 17,600ft 5,364mRate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 5,000lbs 2,268kgMax Landing Weight 5,000lbs 2,268kgUseful Load 2,347lbs 1,065kgPayload with full fuel 1,784lbs 810kgPrice $1.52m €1.18m

SPECIFICATION

25

Rotorcraft

24

BELL 412EP

RENOWNED for working in extremeconditions, the Bell 412EP has

enjoyed business success in the high altitude of theHimalayas and the searing sand swept heat of theArabian Gulf. The Bell 412 is a medium twin enginehelicopter, fitted with a single Pratt & Whitney PT6T-3DTwin Pac – essentially two PT6 engines combined - and isdriven through a single gearbox, but still maintains theadded safety of the two engines being able to operateindependently.

This Twin Pac produces 1,800shp (1,342kW) and give amaximum cruise speed of 122ktas (226km/h). The four blade

SPOTTER’S GUIDEThe 412 is a four bladed upgradeof the classic Huey, with theengines mounted on top of thefuselage. The cabin has threewindows either side with thelarge sliding doors featuring twoeach, the tail rotor is mountedon the right hand side of the tailand is two bladed.

Length 43' 4" (fuselage) 56' 2" (rotors running) 12.91m/17.13mMain Rotor Diameter 46’ 14.02mHeight 14' 11" 4.54mCabin Length 11' 4" 3.45mCabin Width 8’ 2.44mCabin Height 4' 1" 1.25mMax Range 356nm 659kmMax Seating 1 + 14Typical Seating 1 + 7Powerplant 1x P&W PT6T-3D Twin Pac 1,800SHP/1,342kWMax Cruise Speed 122ktas 226km/hMax CeilingRate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 11,900lbs 5,398kgMax Landing Weight 11,900lbsUseful Load 5,055lbs 2,293kgPayload with full fuel 2,807lbs 1,276kgPrice

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEThe 412 is a development of the212 and began in the late1970s. The 212 was adevelopment from the venerableUH-1 Huey/205. The first 412flew in August 1979, and the412 was awarded VFRcertification in January 1981.That same month the firstdelivery occurred. Subsequentdevelopments and upgrades ledto the 412SP, SpecialPerformance, the 412HP, HighPerformance and to thecurrently produced 412EP,Enhanced Performance.

rotor is smaller in diameter than itstwo bladed predecessor, providingmore efficiency and a reduction innoise.

The 412 is able to seatthirteen passengers in thestandard configuration -however a typical corporateinterior may seat seven. A usefulload of 5,055lbs (2,293kg) doesallow all passenger seats to befilled and it is still able to fly itsmaximum range of 356nm(659km).

27

Rotorcraft

26

BELL 427

THEBell 427 is an eight place twinengine light helicopter

designed as a replacement for the 206LT TwinRanger. Powered by twinFADEC Pratt & Whitney PW207Dsproducing 550shp (410kW) each,enables it to cruise at a maximumspeed of 138ktas (256km/h).

It features the same composite huband rotor system used on the Bell 407 andthe OH-58D Kiowa - the main rotors arefour bladed and constructed fromfibreglass and nomex honeycombcomposite with a stainless steel leadingedge abrasion strip, the tail rotor uses afibreglass composite and also has astainless steel leading edge abrasion strip.

The airframe makes high use ofcomposites throughout the structure inparticular the fairings found on top of thefuselage housing the engines. It is able tofly a range of 390nm (722km) with fourpassengers and full fuel under VFRconditions and has a useful load of2,469lbs (1,120kg).

Length 42' 7" (rotors running) 36' 6" (fuselage) 12.98m / 11.13mMain Rotor Diameter 37' 11.28,Height 10' 6" 3.2mCabin Length 5.2' 1.57mCabin Width 4' 1.23mCabin Height 4' 3' 1.3mMax Range 390nm 722kmMax Seating 2 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 4Powperplant 2x P&W PW207D 550shp/410kW eachMax Cruise Speed 138ktas 256km/hMax Ceiling 10,000ft 3,048mRate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 6,350lbs 2,880kgMax Landing Weight 6,350lbs 2,880kgUseful load 2,469lbs 1,120kgPayload with full fuel 1,085lbs 492kgPrice $2.49m €1.74

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEBell had originally planned to develop a twinengine version of the 407, however this wasscrubbed due to payload/range issues and with the427 an all new design was created. It is the firstBell designed civil helicopter using only CAD(Computer Aided Design) and was developedthrough a collaborative agreement with SamsungAerospace Industries of South Korea. First flightwas on December 11, 1997 and Canadiancertification was awarded on November 19, 1999.First customer deliveries followed US certificationin January 2000. US FAA dual pilot IFR certificationwas awarded in May 2000.

SPOTTER’S GUIDEThe 427 has a four bladed main rotor and a twobladed tail rotor. The tail rotor is mounted to theport side of the aircraft. The engines are mounted on top of the fuselage inan aerodynamically friendly fairing with two largestraight exhausts exiting the rear. It can be equipped with either high or low skids.The main cabin windows are rectangular and areslightly shorter in length than the door, with therearmost window almost being triangular.

29

Rotorcraft

28

BELL 429 GLOBALRANGERIN

DEVELO

PMEN

T

THIS is the first Bell helicopter totake advantage of the

company's future “modular affordableproduct line” (MAPL). It incorporates 10 ofthe 13 technologies that are beingdeveloped under the MAPL initiative, whichincludes the ‘MAPL Cabin’ which will seatseven in the 429 but can be ‘deplugged’ toreduce seating.

The MAPL initiative aims to reduce costand increase productivity by retaining highlevels of commonality and will include bothsingle and twin engine helicopters.

The 429 will also introduce a new typeof tail rotor, an X-type which is made up oftwo 407 two blade rotors with swept tips,by increasing the blade count the tail rotorcan turn at a reduced rpm, therebyreducing noise.

It will also feature a new four blade

composite main rotor with new aerodynamicsand a two piece supercritical tail rotordriveshaft which will eliminate the need forhanger bearings.

The 429 essentially comes in twovariants, a corporate version whichincludes retractable undercarriage and anEMS (Emergency Medical Service) versionon skids.

It is able to lift a useful load of 2,700lbs(1,225kg) and cruise at 142ktas (264km/h).

HERITAGEFirst flight for this hybrid of the 427 with theMAPL technologies was imminent as thisbook went to press, with Canadian and UScertification expected in the second half of2007. European certification is set to followwithin twelve months. First deliveries arescheduled for late 2007 and at present 195are on order.

The Bell 429Corporatefeaturesretractableundercarriageand has twocabin windowseach side. Themain rotor hasfour blades andit features an X-type tail rotor.The engines aremounted abovethe passengercabin in anaerodynamicfairing.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE Length 39' 11" (fuselage) 12.17m

Main Rotor DiameterHeight 13' 3" 4.04mCabin LengthCabin WidthCabin HeightMax Range 312nm 577kmMax Seating 1 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 6Powperplant 2x P&W PW207D 710shp/529kW eachMax Cruise Speed 142ktas 264km/hMax CeilingRate of ClimbTake off DistanceLanding DistanceMTOW 7,000lbs 3,175kgMax Landing WeightUseful load 2,700lbs 1,225kgPayload with full fuel 1,260lbs 572kgPrice $3.95m €3.08m

SPECIFICATION

31

Rotorcraft

30

BELL 430

DISTANCE is no object for Bell’smedium twin engine

430 having achieved notoriety some 10 yearsago when it broke the helicopter record for around-the-world flight. The aircraft is alsovery effective in its business or corporate role.

The 430 has seats for up to eightpassengers. It is available with skids(standard) or retractable gear – both haveadvantages and disadvantages. On skidsthe 430 is capable of 353nm (654km) at amaximum cruise speed of 139ktas(258km/h) – with wheels it is able to cruise4kts (7km/h) faster at 143ktas (265km/h) fora range of 275nm (510km).

The 430 is powered by two FADEC equippedRolls-Royce 250-C40Bs producing 747shp(557kW) each for take off and rated for thesame power should there be an engine failure.

The 430 can carry eight passengers in thestandard high density configuration with auseful load 3,964lbs (1,800kgs). When fullyfuelled it can still lift 2,359lbs (1,072kg) whichdoes allow all ten seats to be filled with atouch under 254lbs (115kg) payload per seat.

HERITAGEThe 430 was developed from the 230 andformally launched in February 1992. It firstflew in October 1994, the 230 was based on the222 but incorporated more powerful engines.The 430 was created by stretching the fuselageto allow an extra seating row, upgrading toeven more powerful engines, installing a fourbladed main rotor and skids as standard withan optional wheel kit. The first 430 productionaircraft was completed in 1995, while Canadiancertification was awarded on February 231996, allowing first deliveries from mid thatyear. Meanwhile 230 production wound up inAugust 1995, making way for the 430. Theoriginal 222 was made famous by its use as thefictional Airwolf in the 1980s TV series.

SPOTTER’S GUIDERetaining the same shape and lines of the222, both the models with skids and withwheels have the signature pods mounted onthe fuselage, with straight exhausts andthree passenger windows each side. Whenfitted with wheels, the fuselage pods act asthe housing for retraction. It has a fourbladed main rotor, with the two bladed tailrotor mounted on the left side of the tail.

Length 44’ (fuselage) 50.3’ (rotors running) 13.42m/15.34mMain Rotor Diameter 42’ 12.80mHeight 13.3’ 4.04mCabin Length 8’ 1” 2.46mCabin Width 4’ 6” 1.37mCabin Height 4’ 3” 1.3mMax Range 353nm 654kmMax Seating 2 + 8Typical Seating 2 + 4-6Powerplant 2x Rolls-Royce 250-C40B 747shp/557Kw eachMax Cruise Speed 139ktas 258km/hMax Ceiling 16,180ft 4,932mRate of ClimbTake off Distance XLanding Distance XMTOW 9,300lbs 4,218kgMax Landing WeightUseful load 3,964lbs 1,800kgPayload with full fuel 2,359lbs 1,072kgPrice $4.89m €3.82* with skids

SPECIFICATION*

32

BELL/AGUSTA BA609

IN DE

VELOPM

ENT

Length 44’ 13.31mWingspan/Rotor Diameter 26’ 7.93mHeight 15’ 4.50mCabin LengthCabin WidthCabin HeightMax Range 750nm 1,389kmMax Seating 2 + 9Typical Seating 1 + 6Powperplant 2x P&W PT6C-67A 1,679SHP/1,252kW eachMax Cruise Speed 275 KTAS 509 km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,550mRate of ClimbTake off DistanceLanding DistanceMTOW 16,800lbs 7,631kgMax Landing WeightUseful load 5,512lbs 2,500kgPayload with full fuelPrice

SPECIFICATION

With engineson thewingtipsconnected tolarge 3 bladerotors and aT-tail theBA609 is aunique give-away.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE

55

Pistons3

54

While there are literally hundreds of twinpiston engine aircraft types in operationthere are few that really work as businessaircraft that are still in production today.Adam Aircraft’s A500, newly certified in 2006is a six-place, pressurized, center-line thrust,carbon composite aircraft bringing the newesttechnology to this segment of the market. At the same time Beechcraft is continuallyimproving on its best-selling Baron, 45 yearsafter the aircraft was first launched.

■ The Piper Seneca is a mainstay in early “air taxi” businessesand can be seen at business airfields all around the world.ARTIST: Ira Epton© Flight International – for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

57

Pistons

ADAMAircraft delivered the firstcustomer A500 in November

2005 and through 2006 has been deliveringone aircraft a quarter –with plans to stepup to six per month.

The all-composite, centreline-thrustpiston twin is the first all-new corporatepiston aircraft since the Piper Mojaveceased production in the 1980s.

In 2006 the company introduced somedesign changes from the originalprovisional certification of May 2005including Night, IFR, Pressurization, andother cabin features

The A500 was originally scheduled forcertification in mid-2003, but despite thedelay Adam says it holds 80 firm orders forthe aircraft.

The aircraft’s inline engine configurationbreaks with tradition and sets the A500apart from the vast majority of other pistonengine types.

The aircraft is the first corporate piston twin to be certified in 20 years. The design by Bert Rutan (V-Jet, Defiant and round-the-world Voyager) follows a tradition set bythe experimental, WWII German Dornier 335 fighter, and the semi-successful family of Cessnamodel 336/337 Skymasters but is the first aircraft from the Adam stable which itself was onlyformed in 1998.

HERITAGE

There can be no mistaking the outline of theAdam A500 with its straight low wings with aslight dihedral on the outboard panels. The push-pull engines and the distinctivetwin boom tail with swept fins connected bya high-set tailplane.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

56

ADAM AIRCRAFT A500

Length 36’ 7” 11.19mWingspan 44’ 13.41mHeight 9’ 6” 2.89mCabin Length* 13’ 7” 4.14mCabin Width 4’ 6” 1.37mCabin Height 4’ 4” 1.31mMax Range (3) 1,130nm 2,130kmMax Seating 1 + 5Typical Seating 1 + 5Powerplant 2x Continental TSIO-550 350BHP/261kW eachAvionics 3 panel Avidyne EFIS with Garmin GNS430Max Cruise Speed 230KTAS 426km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 1,368fpm 417mpmTake off Distance 2,471ft 753mLanding Distance 2,471ft 753mMTOW 7,000lb 3,175kgMax Landing Weight N/AUseful load 1,890lb 857kgPayload with full fuel 600lb 272kgPrice $1.2m €0.94m* includes cockpit

SPECIFICATION

NEW

59

Pistons

BEECHRAFT’Stwin-engined

Baron has been described as “the ultimatepiston-powered aircraft” with its 200ktas(370kmh) cruise speed and rangeexceeding 1500nm.

The Baron – built by Raytheon AircraftCompany in Wichita, Kansas – nowfeatures the Garmin G1000 avionics suitevery firmly putting the businessmanowner-pilot on the first rung of businessaircraft ownership or operation.

The six-seater aircraft has a passengercabin with four facing club seats and adouble door which gives easy access to the

cabin. With a choice of leather seats,mahogany tables and fashionable fabrics itbecomes clear how the Baron hasoutlasted the competitor twins over thepast 45 years.

HERITAGEMore than 6,000 Beechcraft Barons and18,000 of the single engine sibling Bonanzashave been built and delivered since the linebegan production in 1947. The current G58Baron can trace its roots back to the B95Travel Air (Beech's first light twin, whichfirst flew in August 1956). The Baron madeits first flight on February 29 1960 andbegan deliveries the following year.

58

BEECHCRAFT BARON

The twin-engines withthree-bladepropellers siton the low,straighttapered wing.There are fourwindows oneach side anda swepttailfin withlow-settailplane andretractabletricyclelanding gear.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE Length 29’ 10” 9.09m

Wingspan 37’ 10” 11.53mHeight 9’ 9” 2.97mCabin Length 12’ 7” 3.84mCabin Width 3’ 6” 1.07mCabin Height 4’ 2” 1.27mMax Range Max Seating 1 + 5Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 2x Teledyne Continental IO-550-C 300HP/223kW eachAvionics Garmin G1000Max Cruise Speed 202ktas 374km/hMax Ceiling 20,688ft 6,305mRate of Climb 1,700fpm 518mpmTake off Distance 2,300ft 701mLanding Distance 1,300ft 396mMTOW 5,500lbs 2,495kgMax Landing Weight 5,400lbs 2,449kgUseful load 1,578lbs 716kgPayload with full fuel 414lbs 188kgPrice $1.22m €0.95m

SPECIFICATION

61

Pistons

CHARTER operators the worldover, operating in

small fields with basic air taxi or smalltransport operations, have relied for manyyears on the Seneca.

This is the most successful six placelight twin since its introduction as a twinengine development of the Cherokee Six.

The aircraft has six places and typicallyflies single pilot with up to four passengersin the twin facing club seats.

The current PA-34-220T Seneca V wasintroduced in January 1997.

It features intercooled turbochargedL/TSIO-360-RB engines which power theaircraft to 25,000 ft and a range in excessof 800nm.

HERITAGEThe Seneca is a derivative of the CherokeeSix first flown in October 1969 with fuelinjected 200hp (150kW) IO-360s. Production deliveries of the initial PA-34-200 Seneca began in late 1971. The aircraft has been built under licensearound the world. The current Seneca V has an upgradedinterior and the turbocharged TeledyneContinental engines.

SPOTTER’S GUIDEEasily recognised by its solid low straightwings with leading edge rubber icing boots.It has a swept tailfin and low set tailplanewith four windows on the side.

60

PIPER SENECA V

Length 28’ 7” 8.7mWingspan 39’ 11” 11.9mHeight 9’ 11” 3.0mCabin Length* 10’ 4” 3.15mCabin Width 4’ 1” 1.23mCabin Height 3’ 6” 1.06mMax Range 828nm 1,533kmMax Seating 2 + 4Typical Seating 2 + 4Powerplant 2x TeledyneContinental L/TSIO-360-RB 220HP/164kWMax Cruise Speed 182ktas 337km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of ClimbTake off Distance 1,707ft 520mLanding Distance 2,180ft 664mMTOW 4,750lbs 2,155kgMax Landing Weight 4,513lbs 2,047kgUseful load 1,367lbs 620kgPayload with full fuel 627lbs 285kgPrice $0.735m €0.573m

SPECIFICATION

Turboprops4

62 63

Offering reduced fuel costs but with cabins to match the businessjets there has been a resurgence of interest in the turbopropcategory. These aircraft range from the workhorses of any charterfleet such as the King Air C90 GT or the Cessna Caravan wherethere is a requirement to operate passengers or cargo to remote ordifficult environments through to the top-of-the range models suchas the Piaggio Avanti and the Pilatus PC-12

■ The single engine Pilatus PC-12 can operate as a smallairliner, a corporate aircraft or a combi passenger-freighter -it is highly versatile and can operate on unprepared strips.Artists: Tim Hall and David Hatchard© Flight International – for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

64

BEECHCRAFT 1900D

Length 57' 10" 17.62mWingspan 57' 11" 17.64mHeight 15' 6" 4.72mCabin Length 25’ 3” 7.69mCabin Width 4’ 6” 1.37mCabin Height 5’ 11” 1.80mMax Range (19) 527nm 975kmMax Seating 2 + 19Typical Seating 2 + 12Powerplant 2x P&WC PT6A-67D 1,279SHP/953kW eachAvionics 4-Tube Collins EFIS 84 & Pro Line II radioMax Cruise Speed 280ktas 518km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 2,615fpm 797mpmTake off Distance 3,813ft 1,162mLanding Distance 2,790ft 850mMTOW 17,120lbs 7,766kgMax Landing Weight 16,765lbs 7,605kgUseful load 6,440lbs 2,921kgPayload with full fuel 1,982lbs 899kgPrice (1999) $3.4m €2.65

SPECIFICATION

The most obviouschange from theKing Air 200 to the1900D is thesubstantiallystretched fuselage(17.63m/57ft 10incompared to13.34m/43ft 9in).Other things to lookat are the modifiedswept fin andtailplane with theaddition of tailets,and stabilons oneach side of thelower rear fuselage.There are eightwindows on eachside.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE

65

Turboprops

LOWcost corporate shuttlerequirements have seen

resurgence of interest in the Beechcraft1900D.

The 19-seater regional airliner – aproduct of the 1980s – has included acorporate version named the “ExecLiner”.

Although no longer in production,Raytheon Aircraft Company have brought

the 1900D to air shows to stimulatedemand. In its airliner configuration theinterior features single forward facingseats separated by a narrow aisle, but incorporate shuttle it can reduce to 12 seatsin blocks of club seating.

The Beechcraft 1900D has a range justshort of 1500nm and cruises at 283ktas(525 km/h)

HERITAGEThe Beechcraft1900D wasdeveloped fromthe Beech 99commuter airliner,itself a derivativeof the King Air200 turboprop.Cockpit controlsand operations aresimilar to the King Air.Development ofthe 1900 began in1979, with firstflight occurring onSeptember 3 1982.US FAAcertification wasawarded inNovember 1983,prior to the1900C's entry into service inFebruary thefollowing year.The first ExecLinercorporatetransport versionwas delivered inmid 1985.Production endedin 2004 with finaldelivery in 2005.

66

BEECHCRAFT KING AIR B200

67

Turboprops

ABILITYto handle difficultconditions as well as

being a “pilot’s dream to fly” the King AirB200 has found favour as a businessaircraft and for military applications ortraining purposes. B200’s routinely fly fromunimproved airstrips that are off-limits tomany other aircraft. High-flotation landinggear allows operators to fly withconfidence, even into unimproved airstrips.

It delivers 289ktas (535km/h) cruisespeed at 25,000ft and has a range of1,825nm (3,380km). The aircraft has alanding run of just 1,759ft (536m) and take off run of 1,860ft (567m), which addsto that access to small remote airfields.

For the passengers, the B200 features acomfortable and roomy “squared-oval”pressurized and air-conditioned cabin. Itcan be configured with seven or nineseats. The rear cabin door is equipped withairstairs. Up front The King Air B200 isroomier than most business jets and isnow being offered with the RockwellCollins Pro Line 21 avionics suite asstandard equipment.

HERITAGEThe Super King Air 200 aircraft waslaunched in October 1970 and first flew in1972. The design of the Super King Air B200derivative began in 1980 with first deliveryin March 2001. The "Super" was droppedfrom the name in 1996 and the aircraftbecame known as the King Air B200. Sincefirst entering service in 1981 almost 3,000King Air B200 aircraft have been delivered.

The B200 hasa low straightwing P&WCPT6-A enginesmounted onthem to powerthe two fourbladepropellers. Theaircraft hasfive mainwindows oneach side witha smallwindow to therear by theswept T-tailwith dorsal finand swepttailplane.


Wingspan 54’ 6“ 16.61mHeight 14’ 10” 4.52mCabin Length 16’ 8” 5.08mCabin Width 4’ 6” 1.37mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.45mMax Range (4) 1,407nm 2,606kmMax Seating 1 + 15Typical Seating 1 + 7Powperplant 2x P&WC PT6A-42 850SHP/634kWeachAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed 289ktas 535km/hMax Ceiling 35,000ft 10,668mRate of Climb 2,460fpm 750mpmTake off Distance 2,600ft 792mpmLanding Distance 2,845ft 867mpmMTOW 12,500lbs 5,670kgMax Landing Weight 12,500lbs 5,670kgUseful load 4,060lbs 1,842kgPayload with full fuel 415lbs 188kgPrice $5.08m €3.96m

SPECIFICATION

68

BEECHCRAFT KING AIR C90GT

69

Turboprops

LIKEits closest competitor – thePiaggio Avanti – the King Air

series built now by Raytheon AircraftCompany (RAC) is built for business ratherthan private usage.

Conscious of the potential demandfrom the Ultra light jets (ULJ) and VeryLight jets (VLJ), RAC responded with thisnew “baby” King Air as a direct derivativeof the original King Air 90 launched morethan 40 years ago.

The C90GT features enhanced “GT”performance from the Pratt & WhitneyCanada PT6A-135 and is designed to attackthe ULJ market through its offer of a largercabin than most of the small jets andperformance that would complete a typicalmission just minutes behind a jet.

The C90GT airframe is the same basic

size as the original King Air with four tofive passenger seats and the roomysquared-oval cabin shape although it canbe configured for up to seven passengers.

It has a heated and pressurized baggagestorage area which is easily accessedduring flight.

There is also a fully enclosed lavatory.

The King Air 90series differsfrom its largersiblingsthrough aconventionaland low settail (the largerKing Airs haveT-tails). There are fourmain cabinwindows oneach side. TheP&WCengines, withfour-bladepropellers aremounted onthe wings.


Wingspan 50’ 3” 15.32mHeight 14’ 3” 4.34mCabin Length 12’ 7” 3.84mCabin Width 4’ 6” 1.37mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.45mMax Range (4) 831nm 1,539kmMax Seating 1 + 12Typical Seating 1 + 5Powerplant 2x P&WC PT6A-135A 2x 550SHP/410kW eachAvionics Collins EFIS displays Pro Line II radiosMax Cruise Speed 270ktas 500km/hMax Ceiling 30,000ft 9,144mRate of Climb 1,953fpm 595mpmTake off Distance 2,392ft 729mLanding Distance 2,355ft 717mMTOW 10,100lbs 4,581kgMax Landing Weight 9,600lbs 4,354kgUseful load 3,010lbs 1,365kgPayload with full fuel 437lbs 198kgPrice $2.95m €2.30m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEKing Airs have been built since 1964 whenthe first King Air 90 – a derivative of theBeechcraft “Queen Air” – first flew. The newKing Air C90GT certified in December 2005features a 26ktas increase in max cruisespeed, a 50-percent time-to-climb reductionand shorter take off distances at all fieldelevations compared to the King Air C90Bthat it replaces. It also needs just 22minutes to reach its FL300 ceiling.

70

BEECHCRAFT KING AIR 350

71

Turboprops

WITHnine seats in its business configuration, the stretched King Air 350 can still beflown single pilot for private work. The aircraft has also been certified for

commuter or corporate shuttle work with up to 11 passengers and two crew.With the addition of the advanced Collins ProLine 21 avionics there is a high level of

flight management. Again, this turboprop can compete in performance with many of thejets but has proven very cost effective for the many operators using this aircraft worldwide.

The aircraft cruises at 312ktas (578 km/h) with a ceiling of 35,000ft.

Length 46’ 8” 14.22mWingspan 14’ 4” 4.37mHeight 57’ 11” 17.65mCabin Length 19’ 6” 5.94mCabin Width 4’ 6” 1.37mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.45mMax Range (4) 1,545nm 2,861kmMax Seating 1 + 15Typical Seating 1 + 9Powerplant 2x P&WC PT6A-60 1,050SHP/783kW eachAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed 312ktas 578km/hMax Ceiling 35,000ft 10,668mRate of Climb 2,731fpm 832mpmTake off Distance 3,300ft 1,006mLanding Distance 2,692ft 821mMTOW 15,000lbs 6,804kgMax Landing Weight 15,000lbs 6,804kgUseful load 5,400lbs 2,449kgPayload with full fuel 1,789lbs 811kgPrice $5.97m €4.65m

SPECIFICATION

BEECH KINGAIR SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The most marked difference between the King Air 350 and its predecessor the 300 , is a stretchedfuselage lengthened by 86cm (2ft 10in) and the addition of winglets. The winglets also separate the350 from the B200. There are seven cabin windows plus a window on a cargo door and the King Airtrademark window aft. Like the B200 there is a swept T-tail with dorsal fin and swept tailplane.

The King Air 350is a stretch ofthe 300 serieswhich first flewin October 1982– itself animprovedderivative of theB200. The 350first flew inSeptember 1988and wascertified inMarch 1990.

HERITAGE

73

Turboprops

72

BN-2T ISLANDER

ACCORDING to BrittenNorman CEO

William Hynett, the BN2T Islander is the nextbest thing to having a helicopter when youneed short field operations in windy conditions.

Adaptable, versatile and durable, it hasan unsurpassed record of solvingtransportation problems simply andeconomically in some of the world'sharshest environments. It also works well inthe more benign environments such as theCaribbean islands, the South Pacific andScottish Highlands.

In conjunction with the Australian interiormanufacturer Aero Plastics & Interiors,

Britten-Norman is now able to offer a rangeof customised interiors for the Islander.

Options include additional windows, trimto match the interior colour scheme andthe new executive interior with club seatingarrangement and an executive table.

In addition to the twin Rolls-Royce(Allison) 250 B17C series Turboprop thereare a 300HP and a 260HP Lycoming versionof the Islander available.

Exceptional low-speed and single-enginehandling, fixed undercarriage and Highground clearance for propeller minimisesdamage from debris and makes this anaircraft you can take virtually anywhere.

HERITAGEDesign of the Islander started in 1963 andthe first prototype BN-2 first flew on 13 June1965,. The first production Islander firstflew on 24 April 1967. More than 1250 of thetype have been delivered over the 40 yearsof production with the ownership of themanufacturer changing hands a number oftimes. The aircraft are built in the UK on theIsle of Wight.

SPOTTER’S GUIDEThe Islander has a straight high wing with aflared wingtip. The Rolls-Royce Allisonturboprop engines are mounted below eachwing. There is a swept tail fin and a low setstraight tailplane. It features non-retractablelanding gear with the main leg mounted aftof the rear wing spar. There are three largewindows on either side with the middlewindow having a diagonal cut to the rear.

Length 35' 8" 10.9mWingspan 49' 14.9mHeight 14' 6" 4.4mCabin Length 15' 2" 4.6mCabin Width 3' 6" 1.1mCabin Height 4' 2" 1.3mMax Range 590nm 1,093kmMax Seating 2 + 8Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 2x Rolls-Royce Allison 250-B17C 320SHP/238kW eachMax Cruise Speed 170ktas 315km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,622mRate of Climb 1,050fpm 318mpmTake off Distance 1,250ft 381mLanding Distance 1,110ft 338mMTOW 7,000lb 3,175kgMax Landing Weight 6,800lb 3,084kgUseful load 2,960lb 1,343kgPayload with full fuel 1,520lb 689kgPrice $1.65m €1.29m

SPECIFICATION

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CESSNA CARAVAN 675

NOTHINGmatches theversatility and cost-

effectiveness of the Caravan 675 - a shorterversion of the Grand model, by about fourfeet. This aircraft also is available in severalconfigurations, including a six-seatexecutive variant.

It boasts better climb and cruiseperformance than the Grand Caravan, and isa true 200mph aircraft. Like the Grand model,the hourly operating cost is claimed to beunmatched by any other aircraft in its class.

The beauty of the 675 is that is can alsooperate on water. The 675 wheeledfloatplane version is the largest singleengined floatplane manufactured today. In

its promotional literature Cessna says,"load it with a generous amount of baggageand/or passengers. Pack extra gear into thefloats. Lift off and fly at speeds in excess of185mph for more than 500 statute miles atmax payload."

The luxury Oasis interior can be fitted intothe shorter fuselaged Caravan 675 and 675amphibian. These will feature six executiveseats – two forward facing seats and an aftfour-place club setting. It can be equippedwith a toilet facility with privacy curtains. Theseats are finished in plush top-grain leather,and customers have the choice of decorativelower sidewall fabrics and traditional sidewalltrim with a veneer accent.

Length 37’ 7” 11.46mWingspan 52’ 1” 15.88mHeight 14’ 10” 4.51mCabin Length 12’ 8” 3.7mCabin Width 5’ 2” 1.6mCabin Height 4’ 4” 1.3mMax Range (8/1500lb payload) 957nm 1772kmMax Seating 2 + 12Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant P&WC PT6A-114A 675SHP/503kWMax Cruise Speed 186kts 344km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 1,234fpm 376mpmTake off Distance 2,053ft 626mLanding Distance 1,655ft 504mMTOW 8,000lb 3,629kgMax Landing Weight 7,000lb 3,538kgUseful load 4,062lbs 1,842kgPayload with full fuel 1,838lbs 834kgPrice $1.713m €1.34m

SPECIFICATION

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

In its amphibian configuration it is hard to miss. Still based on the Caravan 1 it bears greatresemblance to its bigger brother the 208 Grand Caravan and Cargomaster. However it only hasfive windows on either side.

HERITAGEThe Caravan 675(short fuselage)combines the airframeof the 208 with thefully rated engines ofthe 208B announcedat NBAA in September1997. FAAcertification wasachieved April 1998with first delivery thatmonth as anamphibian, toRiversville AviationCompany of New York.The 100th Caravanequipped with WipaireWipline 8000amphibious floats wasdelivered in May 2000.

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CESSNA GRAND CARAVAN

WHENa business trip meansdropping into a grass strip in

an inhospitable area, then the Cessna GrandCaravan is the ideal transportation tool. Andif you are flying from small regionalairports too, it proves its value with itsremarkable short field performance.

The spacious cabin can be fitted with aluxurious leather interior through YinglingAviation in Wichita which gives the Caravanall of the comforts a business jet – withsignificantly more space.

The Caravan’s Oasis interior providesseating configurations for up to 10 peoplewith two forward facing seats behind thecrew, a four-place club seating area with

executive side tables, and aft divan seatingfor two incorporating a standard flushingtoilet approved for occupancy during takeoff and landing. The veneer or laminatewood cabinetry features two standardforward cabinets, one providing aconvenient refreshment centre, while theother is available for pilot materials andgeneral storage applications.

Electronic equipment including thelatest high-tech entertainment systems,telecommunications, and flight datadisplays are also available as options.

With its large cargo door and underbellycargo pod, the aircraft is versatile and isoften used as a cargo/passenger mix.

Length 41' 7" 12.7mWingspan 52' 1" 15.9mHeight 15' 6" 4.7mCabin Length 16' 8" 5.1,Cabin Width 5' 2" 1.6mCabin Height 4" 3" 1.3mMax Range 907nm 1,679kmMax Seating 2 + 12Typical Seating 1 + 6Powerplant 1x PT6A-114A 1,262SHP/941kWMax Cruise Speed 341km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 975fpm 297mpmTake off Distance 2,420ft 738mLanding Distance 1,795ft 547mMTOW 8,750lb 3,985kgMax Landing Weight 8,500lbs 3,855kgUseful load 4,500lb 2,041kgPayload with full fuel 1,361lbs 617kgPrice $1.82m € 1.42m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEThe Caravan was firstintroduced in 1985, andwas originally designedto provide commercialoperators such asFederal Express with amore efficient way totransport cargo. Firstflight of a prototypeoccurred on December 91982 and certificationwas granted in October1984. When productionbegan the following yearit became the first allnew single engineturboprop poweredaircraft to achieveproduction status. TheCaravan fleet operates in68 countries, logs over70,000 hours per month,and has exceeded 8million flight hours. The208-B Grand Caravan is astretched derivative ofthe original Caravan andfirst flew in 1990.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The distinctive Cessna high straight wing with a brace, a single engine and fixed tricycle undercarriagealong with a three blade propeller for the Pratt & Whitney Canada P&WC PT6-A engine make this aneasy one to spot. The aircraft has seven square windows on either side – there are only five on thesmaller Caravan 675. Many of the Grand Caravans are fitted with large underbelly cargo pod.

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dE HAVILLAND TWIN OTTER 400

FROMAsian jungles to theAntarctic ice caps, one

aircraft that is as capable at minus 60degrees as it is at plus 60 is the Twin Otter.

Viking Air of British Columbiaannounced at Farnborough in July 2006that it was planning to restart productionof the 19-seat Twin Otter, to be designatedthe Twin Otter Series 400.

Viking Air, which has been specialising inde Havilland Canada products for more than30 years, acquired Type Certificates forseven de Havilland heritage aircraft,including the DHC-2 Beaver, DHC-3 Otterand the DHC-6 Twin Otter.

Versions have appeared with largerwindows and reduced seating configurationfor charter and sightseeing missions fromland, water (or in the case of the South Pole,ice) – the Twin Otter’s fixed undercarriagecan be fitted with skis, wheels or floats.

The aircraft is an ideal corporatetransport for short-field operations.

HERITAGEThe Viking HS Twin Otter 400 will be thelatest in this long line of STOL turbopropaircraft. It was first seen in January 1964with first flight in May 1965 and firstcustomer delivery in July 1966. Canada’sleading aerospace business Bombardierbought the de Havilland company andceased production of the Twin Otter in 1988.Viking bought the rights and is planning touse the latest production technologies tobring a new – but effectively unchanged –Twin Otter 400 to the market again.The Twin Otter is a derivative of deHavilland’s successful DHC-3 Otter. Many of the design characteristics of theOtter were left intact in the Twin. The double-slotted flap system that markedthe Otter stayed, but the wingspan grewlonger, as did the ailerons. The wing-struts moved inwards toward theengine nacelles, and the tailwheel wasreplaced by a steerable nosewheel. 20passengers could fly in the Twin, ascompared to only nine in the single Otter.

The DHC-6 Twin Otter is ahighly manoeuvrable,high winged un-pressurised twin-enginedaircraft. The Pratt &Whitney Canada PT6A-35engines are mountedbelow the braced,straight high wings withthree-bladed propellers,a swept tailfin and low-set tailplane.Specialist large windowsare fitted on someexisting models forsightseeing operators.The original -100 TwinOtters are recognizableby a much shorter nose.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE Length 51'9" 15.77m

Wingspan 65' 19.8mHeight 9' 8" 2.95mCabin Length 18' 5" 5.61mCabin WidthCabin Height 4' 11" 1.5mMax Range 980nm 1,815kmMax Seating 2 + 20Typical Seating 2 + 17Powerplant 2x P&WC PT6A-34 Max Cruise Speed 182ktas 338km/hMax Ceiling 26,700ft 8,138mRate of Climb 1,600 ft/mTake off Distance 1,200 ft 366mLanding DistanceMTOW 12,500lbs 5,670kgMax Landing Weight 12,300lbs 5,579kgUseful load 4,535lbsPayload with full fuelPrice TBC

SPECIFICATION

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EADS SOCATA TBM-850

ANupgrade of the TBM-700, the single-turboprop TBM-850 is powered by an

uprated Pratt & Whitney Canada PT6A-66D,which has single-crystal turbine bladesenabling higher operating temperatures and,combined with a new compressor first stage,delivering enhanced high-altitude performance.

Currently the TBM-850 doesn’t have afully integrated flight deck – however it isbelieved that this could feature in the nextupgrade. The company increased productionduring 2006 to accommodate a recordorder backlog of more than 50 aircraft. Thecompany delivered 42 aircraft in 2006 andhas 32 orders already in hand for 2007.

The main feature of the new six-seater isits speed–320 knots (590 km/h) at FL260 inISA conditions. It is certified up to 31,000ft(9,449m) and will carry three passengers1,520nm. Socata says that flying a “typical”(unspecified but thought to be the CessnaCitation Mustang) VLJ will save only sevenminutes on a 500-nm trip. “But the directoperating costs will increase by 50 percent.”

Length 34’ 11” 10.65mWingspan 41’ 7” 12.68mHeight 14’ 3” 4.35mCabin Length 13’ 3” 4.05mCabin Width 4' 1.21mCabin Height 4’ 1.22mMax Range (3) 1,520nm 2,815kmMax Seating 2 + 4Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x P&WC PT6A-66D 850shp/633kWAvionics EFIS, dual GNS530 GPS/COM/NAV systems plus KMD 850 MFDMax Cruise Speed 320ktas 593km/hMax Ceiling 31,000ft 9,449mRate of Climb 2,005fpm 611mpmTake off Distance 2,840ft 865mLanding Distance 2,430ft 740mMTOW 7,394lbs 3,354kgMax Landing Weight 7,024lbs 3,186kgUseful load 2,632lbs 1,194kgPayload with full fuel 849lbs 385kgPrice $2.79m €2.18m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEThe TBM-850 has evolved from the TBM-700,originally a joint venture between Socataand Mooney, however Mooney pulled outshortly after the 700A was certified in 1991.Upgrades in 1999 and 2003 - 700B and700C2. In December 2005 the 850 wasannounced as the successor to the C2 andentered service in February 2006.

SPOTTER’S GUIDEAlthough the TBM looks very similar to itsrival the Piper Meridian, the TBM isdistinguishable on the ramp because theweather radar radome is mounted into theleading edge of the port wing and thetailplane has visible dihedral to produce a‘V’ upswept design. There are four windowseach side on the passenger cabin.

NEW

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EPIC AIRCRAFT EPICLTIN

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THEEpicLT is currently only available inkit form, but the factory will help

build 49 percent of the aircraft – presentlyFAA legislation states that for an amateurbuilt kit plane the owner must build aminimum of 51 percent.

The Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67A delivers1,200shp (894kW) and can propel the LT to amaximum cruise speed of 350ktas (648km/h).

The LT offers a useful load of 3,400lbs(1,542kg) and a maximum range of1,394nm (2,582km). It is able to seat fourin the passenger cabin and needs only onepilot. With full fuel the aircraft is still ableto offer 1,541lbs (699kg) of payload.

Although the take off and landing

distances have not been confirmed, it isexpected that to clear a 50’ (15m) obstacleat both maximum take off and maximumlanding weight will be less than 1,800ft(548m) for take off and landing.

HERITAGEThe LT is an all new composite design fromEpic Aircraft, funded by Aircraft InvestorsResource. Presently only available in kitform, the certification application processhas begun with Transport Canada andapproval is set for the third quarter of 2007.The kit version currently utilises arefurbished Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67A,whilst the certified version is due to have aPT6A-68.

Length 35' 10" 10.91mWingspan 43' 13.11mHeight 12' 6" 3.81mCabin Length 15' ** 4.57mCabin Width 4' 7" 1.41mCabin Height 4' 11" 1.49mMax Range 1,394nm 2,582kmMax Seating 1 + 5Typical Seating 1 + 5Powerplant 1x P&WC PT6A-67A 1,200shp / 894kWMax Cruise Speed 350ktas 648km/hMax Ceiling 31,000ft 9,449mRate of Climb 2,545fpm 776mpmTake off Distance 1,800ft 549mLanding Distance 1,800ft 549mMTOW 7,700lbs 3,493kgMax Landing Weight 7,700lbs 3,493kgUseful load 3,400lbs 1,542kgPayload with full fuel 1,541lbs 699kgPrice* $1.25m €0.97m* In kit form **Front bulkhead to rear bulkhead

SPECIFICATION

The EpicLT has asleek smooth designand can be confusedeasily with theFarnborough Aircraft’sKestrel. The LT hasfour round windowseither side and thecabin door is aft ofthe wing and featuresthe third window. Thewing has a very slightsweep with a blendedwinglet and thehorizontal stabiliser ismounted in line withthe cabin windows.The tail fin is smoothand shark-like.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE

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EXTRA EA-500

OWNER-flown business aircraftare attracting a lot of

interest these days and the Extra EA-500 isone of the available aircraft that deservesmore than a second look.

It utilises the successful EA-400airframe, and is powered by the Rolls Royce450shp model 250-B17F/2 engine and theMT Propeller five-bladed, reversiblecomposite prop.

It also includes a state-of-the-artHoneywell avionics system, which is thestandard avionics package for the aircraft.

The EA-500 has an all-carbon fibrecomposite airframe that is both lighter andstronger than traditional metal structures.The aircraft’s high-wing design allows forstability in flight and superior air flow overthe wing and fuselage.

Priced at $1.345 million it is the lowestcost certified single-engine turboprop onthe market. It has a service ceiling of

25,000ft, however it cruises at loweraltitudes without sacrificing fuelconsumption and is certified for all-weatheroperations, including Flight Into KnownIcing conditions, and is approved forlanding on grass strips..

Without a floor wing spar, the EA-500’spassenger compartment is similar in sizeto a King Air C90B with four club-stylefacing seats.

HERITAGEThe aircraft was designed by Walter Extrabetter known for his work with aerobaticaircraft. The German manufacturer went intoliquidation but was bought by US investorsin August 2003 and now has corporateoffices in Pennsylvania. The EA500 wasdeveloped from the airframe of the EA-400.The six-cylinder piston aircraft seats a pilotand five passengers. The turboprop versionreceived EASA certification in July 2004.FAA certification is due early 2007.

The EA-500features a highcantileverstraight wingand a highlyswept T-tail.The aircraftfeatures threewindows oneach side. Atthe front is thesingle Rolls-Royce 450hpengine with afive-bladepropeller.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE Length 33' 2" 10.12m

Wingspan 38' 3" 11.67mHeight 11' 1” 3.38mCabin Length 13' 6"* 4.14mCabin Width 4' 7" 1.4mCabin Height 4' 1" 1.2mMax Range 1,673nm 3,100kmMax Seating 1 + 5Typical Seating 1 + 5Powerplant 1x Rolls-Royce 250-B17F/2 451SHP/336kWAvionics Honeywell Max Cruise Speed 230ktas 426km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 1,335fpm 406mpmTake off Distance 2,050ft 625mLanding Distance 1,991ft 607mMTOW 4,696lbs 2,130kgMax Landing Weight 4,409lbs 2,100kgUseful load 1,610lbs 730kgPayload with full fuel 390lbs 176kgPrice $1.345m €1.05m*Cockpit to aft bulkhead

SPECIFICATION

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FARNBOROUGH AIRCRAFT F1 KESTREL

FARNBOROUGHAircraft Corporation’s F1 Kestrel has been developedto utilise the smaller airports of the world to allow

greater access and versatility for the operator. This single engine turboprop can seat up toeight and currently a single flying prototype has been built and is based at Farnboroughairport, UK, although major assemblies could be built by GAMCO in Abu Dhabi followinginvestment from the UAE. The certification flying will take place in the UK and it is expectedto certify in early 2009. The Kestrel will be able to transport four passengers 1,712nm(3,170km) at 31,000ft (9,449m). Power is provided by a single Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67Bwith 1,000shp (746kW) and a maximum cruise speed of 352ktas (653km/h). The PT6 powerenables the Kestrel to lift a useful load of 2,993lbs (1,358kg).

It offers good short field performance and will clear a 50’ (15m) obstacle at its maximum take

HERITAGEThe Kestrel is a development of UK-basedFarnborough Aircraft. It is an all new eight-seat composite pressurised turbopropand originally was brainchild of RichardNoble – more prominently known fordeveloping the Thrust Supersonic Car. The company has been embroiled insuccessful legal action against AircraftInvestor Resources with regard to the use ofthe Kestrel’s wing design in the UScompany’s Epic Jet which it is developingwith Tblisi-based TAM.

The Kestrel has asleek design witha single turbopropPT6 and featuresthree passengerwindows on theleft, with thecabin door at the rear. On the right there

are four passengerwindows. The wing has avery slightblended wingletwith traditionalmid-fuselagemountedhorizontalstabilisers.


Wingspan 43' 13.1mHeight 12' 7" 3.84mCabin Length 17' 7"* 5.36mCabin Width 5' 1.52mCabin Height 4' 7" 1.40mMax Range (4) 1,712nm 3,170kmMax Seating 1 + 7Typical Seating 1 + 5Powerplant 1x P&W PT6A-67B 1,000shp / 746kWMax Cruise Speed 352ktas 653km/hMax Ceiling 31,000ft 9,449mRate of Climb 3,140fpm 957mTake off Distance 1,795ft 547mLanding Distance 1,822ft 555mMTOW 7,000lbs 3,175kgMax Landing Weight 6,650lbs 3,016kgUseful load 2,993lbs 1,358kgPayload with full fuel 1,093lbs 496kgPrice $2.5m €1.95m*includes cockpit

SPECIFICATION

off weight of 7,000lbs (3,175kg) in as little as1,795ft (547m). At maximum landing weightof 6,650lbs (3,016kg) it can be down andstopped, without using reverse pitch on thepropeller, from 50’ (15m) in 1,822ft (555m).

Coupled with a climb rate of 3,140fpmat sea level the Kestrel compares favourablywith some ultra light and very light jets.

The preliminary specifications suggestthat it may well become the benchmark forsingle engine turboprops of the future –with speeds similar to some ultra light andvery light jets and a respectable IFR range.

IN DE

VELOPM

ENT

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GROB G160 RANGERIN

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CERTIFICATIONof the all composite Ranger has been delayed primarilybecause Grob’s priority has been switched to the SPn

Light Jet, however the Ranger will probably be brought back to life after the SPndevelopment is complete.

It will have a ceiling of 25,000ft (7,620m) and transport four passengers 1,800nm(3,300km). Powered by a single nose mounted Pratt & Whitney PT6A-42A with 850shp(643kW) it can cruise at a maximum of 270ktas (500km/h).

The cabin will feature a four place club with either an additional seat in the rear andlavatory, or simply two extra seats. It offers good short field performance and can clear a50’ (15m) obstacle at maximum take off weight (7,937lbs / 3,600kg) in as little as 2,415ft(736m). Coming back in to land without using reverse pitch it will land from 50’ (15m) in2,130ft (650m) at its maximum landing weight of 7,275lbs (3,300kg).

HERITAGEIt made its first public debut at the Paris AirShow in June 2003 however it was officiallylaunched in April 2003 and made its maidenflight on 29 March 2004 at Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany. However certificationhas been put on hold whilst the SPn jet isbeing developed and brought to market byGrob and ExecuJet.

SPOTTER’S GUIDEThe engine is nose mounted making thenose look long and features a five bladedpropeller. There are four passengerwindows, and the rearmost on the left isfitted to the cabin door. The wing featuresa prominent winglet and has a traditionaltail with mid-fuselage mounted horizontalstabilisers.

Length 37 '8" 11.5mWingspan 46' 11" 14.3mHeight 11' 2" 3.4mCabin Length 16' 5" 5mCabin Width 5’ 1.52mCabin Height 4' 8" 1.42mMax Range (4) 1,800nm 3,300kmMax Seating 1 + 7Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x P&WC PT6A-42A 850shp/634kWMax Cruise Speed 270ktas 500km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 1,850fpm 564mpmTake off Distance 2,415ft 736mLanding Distance 2,130ft 650mMTOW 7,937lbs 3,600kgMax Landing Weight 7,275lbs 3,300kgUseful loadPayload with full fuelPrice $3m €2.3m

SPECIFICATION

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PIAGGIO P180 AVANTI II

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Length 47’ 3.24” 14.41mWingspan 46’ 0.48” 14.03mHeight 13’ 0.90” 3.98mCabin length 14’11” 4.55mCabin width 6’ 1” 1.85mCabin Height 5’ 9” 1.75mMax range (5) 1,509nm 2,795kmMax seating 9 + 2 crewTypical seating 6 + 1 crewPowerplant 2x P&WC PT6A-66B 850SHP/6.34Kw eachMax Cruise speed 398 KTAS 737km/hMax ceiling 41,000ft 12,500mRate of climb 2,950 fpm 899 mpmTake off Distance 2,850ft 869mLanding Distance 2,860ft 872mMTOW 12,100lbs 5,489kgMax Landing 11,500lbs 4,965kgUseful load 3,800lbs 5,216kgPayload with full fuel 1,548lbs 703kgPrice: $6.2m €5.85

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGE

THEP180 Avanti II was launched inNovember 2004 at NBAA and

certified by the FAA early in 2006. The upgrade to the original Avanti was

in response to pressure from the emergingrange of very light jets and the revampedsingle-engined turboprops.

New features include Rockwell CollinsPro Line 21 avionics, uprated P&WCPT6A-66B turboprops, an increase inmaximum take off weight from 11,960lbs(5,245kg) to 12,100lbs (5,489kg), ahigher useful load, and a faster long-range cruise.

Standard on the Avanti II is a newlavatory designed by cabin interior company

Stevens Aviation in the US. Piaggiocompletes its own aircraft in Europe.

The cabin will provide an extra 14” (10cm)in width, a reduction in weight of around30lbs (14kg), and more storage space.

The popularity of the Avanti is manifestedin the strong sales of the aircraft, notablyfrom North American fractional ownershipcompanies where some 60% of the worldfleet is based. New York-based Avantair isthe largest user of the type.

The high performance and reduced noisefrom the twin-pusher turboprop powerplants give the feel and sound of businessjet but the Italian manufacturers claim a 30percent saving in fuel costs.

The Avanti was firstlaunched in 1986with first delivery in1990 but its unusualdesign was astumbling block andfewer than 100aircraft were sold in20 years. There islittle exteriordifference betweenthe Avanti II and theoriginal model.

PIAGGIO P180 AVANTI SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The Avanti has been dubbed the “Catfish” because of its unusual fixed forward wing (not a canard)which provides positive lift reducing the trim drag from the horizontal tail.

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PILATUS PC-12

VERSATILITYwith Swissefficiency –

that’s the Pilatus PC-12. More than 600 ofthese workhorse aircraft are in operation. Itis powered by a single Pratt & WhitneyPT6A-67B producing 1,200shp (895kW) andcan be configured with three differentpassenger interior styles – nine seat airliner,six seat corporate or a four seat/freightercombination. The majority of the soldaircraft are fitted with a corporate interior.The cabin is 16’ 11” (5.16m) long, 5’ (1.53m)wide and 4’ 9” (1.45m) high.

It is certified for SPIFR (Single PilotInstrument Flight Rules) operation and willfly six executives 1,106nm (2,050km) –

there need not be a tarmac runway at theother end, the PC-12 is able to land onunprepared strips and is able to take-offand clear a 50’ (15m) obstacle at grossweight in 2,650ft (808m), on landing withuse of reverse thrust it can be down andstopped from 50’ (15m) at maximumlanding weight in just 1,830ft (557m).

The PC-12 is a capable aircraft in itsclass since 2006 it has offered an increasedmaximum take-off weight, 10,495lbs(4,740kg) and in 1998 a smaller wingletwas introduced. It is has a useful load of4,310lbs (1,955kg) and can cruise at270ktas (500km/h) and a ceiling of30,000ft (9,150m).

Length 47’ 3” 14.40mWingspan 53’ 4” 16.27mHeight 14’ 4.26mCabin Length 16’ 11” 5.16mCabin Width 5’ 1.53mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.45mMax Range (6) 1,106nm 2,050kmMax Seating 2 + 9Typical Seating 2 + 6Powerplant P&WC PT6A-67B 1,200SHP/895kWMax Cruise Speed 270ktas 500km/hMax Ceiling 30,000ft 9,150mRate of Climb 1,600fpm 488mpmTake off Distance 2,650ft 808mLanding Distance 2,160ft 660mMTOW 10,495lbs 4,740kgMax Landing Weight 9,920lbs 4,500kgUseful load 4,310lbs 1,955kgPayload with full fuel 691lbs 313kgPrice $2.875m €2.24m


The PC-12 was an all newdesign for Pilatus in theirrange of single enginePT6 powered aircraft. Itwas announced at NBAAin October 1989 and flewfor the first time in May1991. Certification wasplanned for mid 1993 –however Swiss and FAAcertification wereawarded in March andJuly of 1994 respectively.The main setback for thedelay was a redesign ofthe wings to includewinglets therebyensuring thatperformance guaranteeswould be met.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The PC-12 has a nose mounted engine with a four blade propeller. There are five cabin windows onthe right-hand side and four on the left-hand side. It has a T-tail with an enlarged dorsal fin. When fitted with a weather radar this is fitted to the starboard wing close to the winglets.

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PIPER MERIDIAN

PIPERhas been building airplanesfor 70 years and the PA-46

Meridian is very much among the best ever.The aircraft is a light six-seat pressurised

business turboprop powered by a singlePratt & Whitney PT6A-42A with 500 SHP(373kW). Typically flown with a single pilotand four passengers the aircraft is able tocover 1,000+nm. With a take-off groundroll of 1,650ft (503m) it is also able toutilise smaller airfields and bring passengersclose to their planned destinations.

A pressurised cabin allows the aircraftto fly at 30,000ft. It is fitted with theAvidyne FlightMax Entegra and featuresthree 10.4" displays - two Primary FlightDisplays (PFDs), one for the pilot andanother for a copilot, and the third,centrally mounted, Multi-FunctionDisplay (MFD).

HERITAGEThe presentday Meridianis theevolution ofthe Piper PA-46 Malibuwhich had itsfirst flight inNovember1979. Thetype wasannounced inNovember 1982 and was powered by a 310hp(230kW) Continental TSIO-520 piston engine –404 were built. The Malibu was among the first aircraft tofeature cabin pressurisation, a feature notincluded on the prototype. Subsequently theMalibu was upgraded in 1988, the changesincorporated a 350hp (260kW) Textron LycomingTIO-540-AE2A and the new designation PA-46-350P Malibu Mirage, although it is nowcommonly known simply as the Piper Mirage,this model is still in production. In 1997 Piperannounced its plans to develop a turbopropversion fitted with the venerable and reliablePratt & Whitney PT6, certification followed inSeptember 2000 with the designation PA-46-500TP Malibu Meridian, again more commonlyknown as the Piper Meridian.

Length 29' 7" 9.02mWingspan 43' 13.11mHeight 11' 4" 3.44mCabin Length* 12' 4" 3.75mCabin Width 4' 1" 1.25mCabin Height 3' 11" 1.19mMax Range 1,000+nm 1,885+kmMax Seating 2 + 4Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x P&WC PT6A-42A 500SHP/373kW take off powerAvionics Avidyne FlightMax EntegraMax Cruise Speed 260ktas 481km/hMax Ceiling 30,000ft 9,144mRate of Climb 1,556fpm 474mpmTake off Distance 2,438ft 743mLanding Distance 2,110ft 643mMTOW 5,092 lbs 2,310 kgMax Landing Weight 4,850lbs 2,200kgUseful load 1,720 lbs 780 kgPayload with full fuel 564lbs 256kgPrice $1.895m €1.48m*Instrument Panel to Rear Bulkhead

SPECIFICATION

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

Although the Meridian looks very similar to the Socata TBM-850, the Meridian is distinguishable on theramp because of the weather radar radome mounted on a pylon under the starboard wing. The tailplaneis mounted horizontally and there are three rectangular windows each side on the passenger cabin.

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Length 33' 4" 10.16mWingspan 45' 13.72mHeight 15' 4" 4.67mCabin Length 15’ 6” 4.72mCabin Width 4’ 6” 1.37mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.44mMax Range 1,075nm 1,991kmMax Seating 2 + 8Typical Seating 2 + 6Powperplant 1x P&W PT6A-34 750SHP/559kWAvionics Garmin G1000Max Cruise Speed 190ktas 351km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 1,700fpm 518mpmTake off Distance 1,200ft 366mLanding Distance 1,660ft 505mMTOW 6,750lbs 3,062kgMax Landing Weight 6,750lbs 3,062kgUseful load 3,450lbs 1,565kgPayload with full fuel 1,306lbs 592kgPrice $1.295m €1.01m

SPECIFICATION

The Kodiak is a highwing single engineturboprop featuringfixed tricycleundercarriage,however it isavailable withfloats or as anamphibian. It hasstruts from thewings to thefuselage which joinin front of the mainlanding gear. Thereare four passengercabin windows oneach side and atraditionally midmounted horizontalstabiliser.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE

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Turboprops

BACKWOODSbusiness?Outback,

rough terrain or lakeland work? Then thisaircraft under development is just right.The simple rugged design and versatility ofthe undercarriage – be it wheels, floats oran amphibian combination – means theKodiak can get in and out of almostanywhere. Combine the ruggedness with apropeller clearance of 19 inches and it’scertain to be able to handle the bumps andlumps ‘off piste’.

At its maximum take off weight of6,750lbs (3,062kg) it has a ground roll of700ft (213m) and will clear a 50ft (15m)obstacle in 1,200ft (366m). The wing alsomakes use of discontinuous leading edge itcreates a vortex that keeps airflow movingwhere you need it most. The result is thatat speeds closer to stalling speeds, fullaileron control can be maintained andthereby reduce approach speeds.

The Pratt & Whitney PT6-34 produces750shp (559kW) and will lift a useful load

of 3,450lbs (1,565kg). It has a range of1,075nm (1,991km) and can cruise at amaximum of 190ktas (351km/h).

Up front it features a Garmin G1000integrated avionics suite consisting of threedisplays and has VIP seating for six in thecabin. Although the cabin is notpressurised it does feature oxygen systemsto allow the maximum cruise altitude of25,000ft (7,620m) to be attained.

Having an un-pressurised cabin meansthe airframe is not limited in life by cyclesbut rather on condition.

HERITAGEThe Kodiak is the first offering form QuestAircraft which started in 2001. The Kodiakis currently approaching the end ofcertification testing – having accumulatednearly 500 flight hours. The Kodiak wasdesigned to be STOL (Short Take Off andLanding) with rugged construction. Thereneedn’t be tarmac at the other end. It isdue to be certified to FAR Part 23 forday/night and VFR/IFR operation.

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This is a brand-new sector of the Very Light Jet market with aircraftspecifically designed for the owner-pilots who want to go about theirbusiness at speed. All of the aircraft in this sector are still emergingfrom the drawing board into pre-certification testing. Others areexpected to join during 2007 with Cirrus among the likely contenders.The size of the market is still undetermined.

■ The Javelin epitomises the “big boy’s toys”concept – a personal business jet thatdoubles as a fighter aircraft trainer. Artist: Tekura Maeva © Tekura Maeva

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ATG JAVELININ

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THE Javelin is an all new type ofpersonal jet which is scheduled to

certify in 2008. It seats two in a tandemconfiguration and features a three screen 5x 7 inch avionics package from OpTechnologies. Recently the cockpitunderwent some changes to incorporate acentre stick over the original side stick andthe canopy sills have been lowered by 4”(10cm) to increase pilot look-down visibility.

It is powered by dual Williams FJ33-4A-18M turbofans with 1,800lbs (8.01kN) ofthrust each and capable of cruising at amaximum of 500ktas (926km/h).

Although it is a small aircraft it is stillcapable of a 1,000nm IFR range and aceiling of 45,000ft.

The Javelin certainly redefines theterm ‘Personal Jet’ and is superbly suitedto the inner child of every civil pilot andthe boyish dreams of recreating Top Gun– yet it is still able to operate as a twoseat transport.

Production models will featurepressurization, thereby no need for the G-suit or the bone dome!

The Javelin is apersonal jet withfighter jet styling.It features twintails and withshort stubbywings bears aresemblance to ashrunk hybridF/A18 Hornet andthe F-5 FreedomFighter. The airintakes for thetwo engines aremounted at andjust in front of thewing root. Thecockpit has onelarge aft hingedcanopy.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE Length 37' 11.28m

Wingspan 25' 1" 7.65mHeight 10’ 6” 3.20mCabin Length 10' 8" 3.26mCabin Width 2' 11" 0.89mCabin Height 4' 6" 1.38mMax Range (2) 1,000nm 2,223kmMax Seating 1 + 1Typical Seating 1 + 1Powerplant 2x Williams FJ33-4A-18M 1,800lb / 8.01kN eachAvionics Op TechnologiesMax Cruise Speed M 0.87 500ktas/926km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of Climb 9,000fpm 2,743mpmTake off Distance 3,200ft 975mLanding Distance 4,000ft 1,219mMTOW 6,900lbs 3,130kgMax Landing Weight 6,900lbs 2,812kgUseful load 2,245lbs 1,018kgPayload with full fuel 370lbs 167kgPrice $2.795-2.995m €2.18-2.34m

SPECIFICATION HERITAGEThe Javelin is an all new design fromAviation Technology Group and will beavailable as the Mk 10 civil version and theMk 20 military trainer. The military versionis being developed in collaboration withIsrael Aircraft Industries. The Javelin firstflew on 30 September 2005.

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AUSTRIANmanufacturerDiamond Aircraft

is developing a personal jet aimed at thebusinessman or high net worth individualwho wants to be pilot as well as passenger.

D-JET has been optimised for flight atlower altitudes. The seating configuration is2 + 3, with an internal baggagecompartment aft of the three seat bench. Afairly spacious of the cabin allows the useof control yokes that offer lower controlforces than unboosted sidestick controlsystems and allows equally convenientoperation, from either pilot seat.

The D-JET is powered by the Williams FJ-33 fanjet engine. This fully certified engineis a scaled derivative of the popular andproven FJ44 that is in most modern lightbusiness jets. It features the FJ44’s FADEC(Full Authority Digital Engine Control) whichoffers improved operation, reliability,efficiency, and maintenance.

Additional baggage can be carried in the

forward and aft unpressurised baggagecompartments, including full size golf bags.

Preliminary specifications of the D-Jet,which comes standard with a three-screenGarmin G1000 avionics system, include a5,071-pound mtow, 315-knot max cruisespeed, 25,000-foot ceiling and a 1,351-nmrange. Diamond claims orders for some 125of the aircraft which they are pricing at$1.35 million.

The D-Jet hasstraight wingswith angularwinglets.Distinctive bythe air inletsfor the singleWilliams F33engine at theroot of thewing beneaththe threecabin windowson each side.There is a tallswept tail witha highmounted tailfin.


Wingspan 37’ 6” 11.43mHeight 11’ 7” 3.53mCabin LengthCabin Width 4' 7" 1.42mCabin Height 4' 8" 1.44mMax Range 1,351nm 2,502kmMax Seating 2 + 3Typical Seating 2 + 3Powerplant 1x Williams FJ33-4A 1,570lbMax Cruise Speed 315ktas 583km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of ClimbTake off Distance 2,034ft 620mLanding DistanceMTOW 5,071lbs 2,300kgMax Landing WeightUseful load 2,245lbs 1,018kgPayload with full fuel 505lbs 229kgPrice $1.38m €1.08m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEThe Diamond D-Jet (S/N 001) single-enginevery light jet flew has its first flight on April18 in Ontario, Canada, home of Diamond’sNorth American division. The aircraft wasthen shown at Oshkosh in July. Certificationis due late in 2007The company plans to deliver 50 aircraftbefore the end of 2008, ramping up to aproduction rate of 1 aircraft per day by late2009. Diamond has successfully producedsingle and twin-engine propeller aircraft formany years with leading edge technologyusing proven composite airframe materials.

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EXCEL-JET SPORT-JET

HAVINGcompleted its first flightearlier this year the

program was in doubt after the proof-of-concept prototype crashed after take off inJune – Excel-Jet believes wake turbulencewas to blame. This did not upset thedevelopment progress and this wasrestarted in July. Excel-Jet stated theproof-of-concept had completed 95% ofthe envelope testing that it was planned todo. There were no fatal injuries, Excel-Jetsay this is because of the carbon fibre rollcage built into the fuselage.

A single fuselage mounted Williams

FJ33-4A with 1,570lbs (6.98kN) will powerthe Sport-Jet to a maximum cruise speed of375ktas (694km/h). Excel-Jet from theonset have collaborated with insurancecompanies to try and ensure that the Sport-Jet can be used by general aviationusers too, and such have limited the ceilingto 25,000ft (7,620m).

The Sport-Jet will be able to lift a usefulload of 2,100lbs (952kg) and have an IFRrange of 1,000nm (1,852km). It will seat amaximum of four passengers and willoperate with a single pilot and for $1.1m(€0.86m) has a relatively spacious cabin.

EXCEL JET SPORT JET SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The Sport-Jet has a single engine mounted in the back of the fuselage and features two air intakes onthe fuselage which start behind the passenger cabin. The main gear retracts into the wing which ismid-mounted. It is has two passenger windows each side and a T-tail.

The Sport-Jet isan all new singleengine personaljet. It flew on 11May 2006 for thefirst time and FAR23 certificationwith the FAA istargeted for May2008. It isprimarily anowner/operatorjet.

HERITAGELength 30' 9.14mWingspan 33’ 2” 10.12mHeight 8’ 2” 2.50mCabin Length 7’ 11” 2.41mCabin Width 4’ 11” 1.49mCabin Height 3’ 11” 1.19mCabin Volume 113 cu.ft 3.2m3Max Range 1,000nm 1,852kmMax Seating 1 + 4Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 1x Williams FJ33-4A 1,570lb/6.98kNMax Cruise Speed 375ktas 694km/hMax Ceiling 25,000ft 7,620mRate of Climb 2,500fpm 762mpmTake off Distance 2,300ft 701mLanding Distance 1,800ft 548mMTOW 4,900lbs 2,222kgMax Landing Weight 4,400lbs 1,995kgUseful load 2,100lbs 952kgPayload with full fuel 693lbs 314kgPrice $1.1m TBD €0.86m

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The Ultra Light section of the VLJ category is the mostcontroversial – and the most sensational. The two competingaircraft, the Adam A700 and the Eclipse 500 are bringing a low-cost new-generation aircraft that is aimed at both the owner-operator and the air taxi markets. Honeywell expectsorders for 5000 aircraft over the next 10 years in this segment –the manufacturers argue this figure is well short of their plans.

■ The Eclipse 500 will be the first of the new-generation low costVery Light Jets to deliver to customers. The aircraft - and itschampion - have been likened to doing for business aviationwhat Henry Ford and the T-model did for automobiles.Artist Tim Hall.© Flight International – for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

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ADAM AIRCRAFT A700

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The A700 is a jet-powered version ofthe A500 (see PistonAircraft) it is the firstjet from the Coloradobased company.

HERITAGE

The A700 shares thesame outline as theAdam A500 featuringstraight low wingswith a slight dihedralon the outboardpanels. The push-pullengines of the A500are replaced with theWilliams FJ-33engines aft beneaththe distinctive twinboom tail with sweptfins connected by ahigh-set tailplane.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

THE Adam A700 was announced on 21October 2002. At the time of the

programme announcement, Adamanticipated the first flight of the A700 inthe second half of 2003 with first customerdeliveries in late 2004.

However, setbacks to the company’sA500 programme have contributed to afurther slow-down of progress on itsstretched jet-powered derivative.

The Williams International FJ33-poweredconforming aircraft is nonethelessprogressing with certification.

The design configuration is based on the

A500 push-pull twin with some 80 per centparts commonality, including the re-use ofthe wing and twin-boom tail as well asparts of the fuselage, which is lengthened30 inches to accommodate a toilet.

The proof-of-concept aircraft flew inJuly 2003 and in April 2006 aircraft S/N002flew to 41,000ft and achieved an airspeedof 340ktas. Static tests were complete inJune 2006.

The company had more than 340orders in June 2006 and were reportingsignificant interest from operators for the seven seater.

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Length 40’ 9” 12.42mWingspan 44’ 13.41mHeight 9’ 6” 2.92mCabin length* 16’ 4.88mCabin width 4’ 6” 1.37mCabin Height 4’ 3.6” 1.31mMax range 1,100nm 2,037kmMax seating 2 + 6 Typical seating 1 + 7 Powerplant 2x Williams FJ-33 1,350lbs/6.0kN eachAvionics: Avidyne FlightMax EntegraMax Cruise speed 340 KTAS 630kmMax ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of climb 2,550fpm 777mpmTake off Distance 2,950ft 899mLanding Distance 2,520ft 768mMTOW 8,5l00bs 3,856kgMax Landing t8,300lbs 3,765kgUseful load 2,950lbs 1,338kgPayload with full fuel 725bs 329kgPrice: $2.25m €1.76m*includes cockpit

SPECIFICATION

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ECLIPSE 500NEW REVOLUTIONnot

evolution!The Eclipse 500, brainchild of 6,500-hourprivate pilot and former Microsoft high-flyerVern Raburn who, in the late 1990s,persuaded investors to back his vision of atwin-engine, glass-cockpit, single-pilotcorporate jet – selling at the price of a piston– to the tune of almost half a billion dollars.

The innovation that gave birth to theEclipse 500, and sparked today’s wave ofVLJs, was the idea of designing a jet aircraftwith operating costs so low it wouldcompete directly with the car. Raburnpredicted the breakthrough wouldregenerate general aviation, make it a viablealternative to road transport and thereforeenable massive business opportunities to betapped in ways that were impossible orimpractical before. And now it is here.

The four-seat cabin itself has the lookand feel of a luxury car interior and wasdeveloped for maximum crash survivability.The 0.45 cubic metre baggage area ispressurised, heated, and accessible in flight.

The twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW610Fturbofan jet engines provide maximum altitudeof 41,000ft (12,497m) which avoids most

severe weather systems and provides a cruisespeed of 370 knots (685 km/h) for a 1,125nm(2,084km) range with four occupants.

The Eclipse 500 is fitted with an all-glasscockpit with two primary flight displays and onemultifunction display, which provide systemcontrol and clearly show the flight parameters,engine and system performance data.

The potentially massive air taxi market ledby biggest customer Dayjet of Florida, isqueuing up to prove the concept and arerejoicing in the aircraft’s ability to operate frompaved, grass or dirt runways. The take-off run isa mere 2,297ft (700m).

Length 33’ 8” 10.3mWingspan 37’ 11” 11.6mHeight 11’ 3.4mCabin Length** 12’ 4” 3.76mCabin Width 4’ 8” 1.42mCabin Height 4’ 2” 1.27mMax Range (4) 1,125nm 2,084kmMax Seating 1 + 5Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 2x P&WC PW610F 900lbs / 4.0kN eachAvionics AvioMax Cruise Speed 370ktas 685km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 3,314ft 1010mpmTake off Distance 2,297ft 700mLanding Distance 2,155ft 657mMTOW 5,920lbs 2,685kgMax Landing Weight 5,520lbs 2,504kgUseful load 2,400lbs 1,089kgPayload with full fuel 714lbs 324kgPrice $1.52m €1.16m*typical landing weight **includes cockpit

SPECIFICATION

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The all-metal airframe features straight wings with distinctive wingtip fuel tanks. It has a T-tailwith dorsal fin and highly swept tailplane. There are three windows on each side – one on the door.

HERITAGEThe first test Eclipse 500aircraft made its maiden flightin August 2002 with WilliamsEJ22 engines. In November2002, Eclipse Aviationdecided to replace theengines and aircraft are nowfitted with Pratt & WhitneyCanada engines. First flightwith the new engines was inDecember 2004. The aircraftreceived provisional typecertification from the FAA onJuly 27, 2006, shortly beforethe aircraft’s PW610F enginewas certified by the Canadianauthorities. Full typecertification and productioncertification was imminent asthis book went to press.Eclipse is testing an improvedwingtip fuel tank made fromaluminium rather thancomposite to meet FAAlightning strike criteria andlarger wingtip tanks areplanned to add range.However it is being flownusing IFR (instrument flightrules) with a single pilotthroughout its operatingenvelope. Deliveries tocustomers will begin followingfull certification.

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These aircraft are determined as Very Light Jets because of theirweight or useful load factors but prefer to be described by most of theOEMs as Entry Level jets. They certainly feature everything expectedof a business jet by corporate flight departments. Deliveries ofbusiness jets in this segment are poised to accelerate rapidly off abase of around 100 units in 2006 averaging just under 250 aircraft peryear over the next 10 years, reflecting the introduction of new VLJs,such as the Embraer Phenom 100 and Cessna Citation Mustang, bothof which already enjoy a strong order backlogs.

■ Raytheon’s Beechcraft Premier IA is one of the aircraft alreadybringing in the orders for the VLJ sector. The aircraft was thefirst all-composite fuselage business jet to enter service.Artists: Giussepe Picarella and David Hatchard

© Flight International – for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

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BEECHCRAFT PREMIER IA

THE six-passenger Premier IA is thefirst composite-fuselage business

jet. This state-of-the-art constructionmethod, combined with a metal sweptwing, provides faster cruise speed, betteraltitude performance, superior handling anda cabin size that is seven inches taller andeight inches wider than competitive entry-level business jets.

The performance figures for the aircraftare outstanding with a maximum speed of451ktas (835 km/h). With full fuel, one pilotand three passengers, the Premier I has a1,450nm range.

Operating for charter companies inEurope such as the UK’s Club 328, thePremier IA has cabin comfort more in linewith a mid-size jet and features includeimproved temperature control and tablestorage with 110 VAC outlets andprovisioning for the optional Satcomflight phone.

As well as an integrated Rockwell Collinscabin entertainment system with CD/DVDand Airshow capability.

Up front the Premier IA has RockwellCollins Integrated Flight Information

HERITAGEThe Beech 390 series began as a concept inthe early 1990s and was launched at NBAAin September 1995 as the Raytheon Premier1 – the first to only feature the Raytheonname. It first flew in December 1998 andentered service in March 2001. Thefollowing year it reverted to the Beechcraftname. At EBACE in Geneva in May 2005,Raytheon unveiled the upgraded 1A and itwas certified in October that year.

The low sweptwing is mountedbelow thefuselage. Thereare three cabinwindows aswept T-tail andswept tailplane.The Williamsengines are rearmounted oneither side ofthe midfuselage.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE Length 46’ 14.02m

Wingspan 44’ 6” 13.56mHeight 5’ 5” 4.69mCabin Length 13’ 6” 4.17mCabin Width 5’ 6” 1.68mCabin Height 5’ 5” 1.65mMax Range (4) 1,314nm 2,434kmMax Seating 2 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 2x Williams FJ44-2A 2,300lb/10.23kN eachAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed 456ktas 845km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 3,800fpm 1,158mpmTake off Distance 3,792ft 1,156mLanding Distance 3,170ft 966mMTOW 12,500lbs 5,670kgMax Landing Weight 11,600lbs 5,262kgUseful load 4,160lbs 1,887kgPayload with full fuel 490lbs 222kgPrice $6.06m €4.73m

SPECIFICATIONSystems (IFIS) as part of its ProLine 21avionics suite. This advanced upgrade offersPremier IA pilots a wide range of safety andsituational enhancing information toinclude map overlays (airways, airspace,geopolitical) as standard features.

The Premier IA is powered by twoWilliams/Rolls FJ44-2A engines.

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CESSNA CITATION CJ1+

UNTIL the certification of theCitation Mustang, the

Citation CJ1 was the first step up the ladderof Citations, now with the “plus” suffix,signifying improvements to the avionicsand the engines, this is very much apowerful contender in the burgeoningVLJ/entry-level business jet market

The “plus” improvements have beenquite significant with the derivative able toclimb and cruise faster than the originalbut weighs less.

It is also able to operate on shorterrunways in hot and high conditions.

The CJ1+ includes the Rockwell CollinsProLine 21 along with the Collins FlightManagement System (FMS) replacing theHoneywell Bendix/King radios andUniversal FMS found in the CJ1 and CJ2.

Even more important for the subsequentweight changes was the introduction ofFADEC.

Not only did this simplify the workload forthe pilots it also meant Cessna could removethe thrust attenuators thereby reducingweight and easing thrust control for pilots.

The CJ1+ has new advanced engines,

featuring a pair of Williams FJ44-1APturbofans providing 1,960lbs (8.72kN) of thrust.

The enhanced Rockwell Collins avionicspackage gives both light jets the feel of amuch bigger aircraft.

Standard equipment includes: ■ three 10” x 8” (240mm x 192mm) LCDscreens featuring dual digital flightguidance computers; ■ dual solid-state attitude headingreference systems, dual RVSM compliantdigital air data computers; ■ a single, three-axis autopilot; ■ dual sets of the Pro Line 21 comm,navigation and surveillance radios; ■ a multi-sensor FMS 3000 with 12-channel GPS receiver; ■ weather radar and XM radio data linkweather receiver as well as the L-3Communications’ Skywatch HP TCAS-1,Landmark TAWS;■ and an integrated standby instrument

system.

Cessna’s whole CJ series is certified forsingle pilot operation.

Length 42’ 7” 12.98mWingspan 46’ 11” 14.30mHeight 13’ 9” 4.19mCabin Length 11’ 3.35mCabin Width 4’ 10” 1.47mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.45mMax Range 1,300nm (full fuel MTOW) 2,408kmMax Seating 2 + 7Typical Seating 1 + 4Powperplant 2x Williams FJ44-1AP 1,960lb/8.72kN eachAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed 389KTAS 720km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 3,290fpm 1,003mpmTake off Distance 3,250ft 994mLanding Distance 2,590ft 789mMTOW 10,700lb 4,853kgMax Landing Weight 9,900lb 4,490kgUseful load 3,835lb 1,740kgPayload with full fuel 615lb 279kgPrice $4.24m €3.31m

SPECIFICATION

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

A CitationJet forward fuselage is mounted to a T-tail configured tailplane and a new supercriticallaminar flow wing. The Williams FJ44 turbofans (with paddle thrust reversers) are mounted aft. A useful differentiator against other Citations is that CJ1 and CJ1+ have four windows.

HERITAGEThe CJ seriesevolved from theCitation 525prototype thatspawned theCitationJet whichCessna launched atNBAA in 1989. Firstflight occurred onApril 29 1991, FAAcertification wasawarded on October16 1992 and the firstdelivery was onMarch 30 1993. At 1998 NBAAconvention Cessnaannounceddevelopment of animproved CJ1 toreplace theCitationJet – thelatest improvementsto make CJ1+happened in 2006.EASA certificationwas awarded in July.

NEW

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CESSNA CITATION CJ2+

Length 47’ 8” 14.53mWingspan 49’ 10” 15.19mHeight 14’ 4.27mCabin Length 13’ 7” 4.14mCabin Width 4’ 10” 1.47mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.45mMax Range 1,613nm (full fuel MTOW) 2,987kmMax Seating 2 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 6Powerplant 2x Williams FJ44-3A-24 2,490lb/11.08kNAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed 418KTAS 774km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of Climb 4,120fpm 1,256mpmTake off Distance 3,360ft 1,024mLanding Distance 2,980ft 908mMTOW 12,500lb 5,669kgMax Landing Weight 11,525lb 5,227kgUseful load 4,700lb 2,132kgPayload with full fuel 770lb 349kgPrice $5.75m €4.49m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEThe CJ2+ is an enhanced CJ2 which itselfgrew from the successful CitationJetprogramme (see Citation CJ1+) The CitationCJ2+ was announced at the 2004 NBAAshow. The CJ2+ received U.S. FederalAviation Administration certification lessthan a year later on October 3, 2005, after80 flights and 190 flight hours and EASAcertified the aircraft in July 2006.

CHARTERoperators are findingthe CJ2+ is giving

them just that little extra bit of aircraft.A cabin that is three feet longer than its

sister aircraft, the CJ1+ gives one extrapassenger seat bringing the total to six.

Like the smaller CJ1+, the CJ2+ includesthe Rockwell Collins ProLine 21 along withthe Collins Flight Management System(FMS) replacing the Honeywell Bendix/Kingradios and Universal FMS found in itspredecessor the CJ2. This also has FADEC.

The enhancements have led to greaterperformance, upping the zero fuel weights,improved payload, and increased range byaround 50nm (1,613nm, 2,987km for theCJ2+) but the most impressive difference isthe climb – the CJ2+ can now climb straightto its ceiling of 45,000ft in just 28minutes.

The CJ2+ is powered by two WilliamsFJ44-3A-24 engines offering 2,490lbs

The extra threefeet of cabin(leading to analmost 48’fuselage) isshown by thetwo additionalwindows overthe CJ1+ . Alonger tail conearea is used forbaggage. The Williamsengines aremounted aft,mid fuselage.Like the CJ1+ ithas straight lowwings and a T-tail.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE

(11.8kN) of thrust giving a cruise speedof 412ktas.

The Citation CJ1+, CJ2+ and CJ3 aremanufactured on the same production line,allowing Cessna to build these airframes onthe same tooling.

This lean manufacturing practice allowsCessna to adjust Citation CJ1+, CJ2+ andCJ3 production rates more efficiently, anddeliver airplanes to customers with shorterlead times.

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CESSNA CITATION MUSTANG

Length 39’ 11” 12.17mWingspan 42’ 3” 12.87mHeight 13’ 9” 4.19mCabin Length 9’ 9” 2.97mCabin Width 4’ 7” 1.42mCabin Height 4’ 6” 1.37mMax Range 1,150nm 2,130kmMax Seating 2 + 4Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 2x P&WC PW615F 1,350lb/3.01kN eachAvionics Garmin G1000Max Cruise Speed 340 KTAS 630 km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 3,010fpm 917mpmTake off Distance 3,120ft 951mLanding Distance 2,610ft 796mMTOW 8,645lbs 3,921kgMax Landing Weight 8,000lbs 3,629kgUseful load 3,180lbs 1,442kgPayload with full fuel 600lbs 272kgPrice $2.54m €1.98m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGECessna celebrates its 80th anniversary thisyear (2007) and throughout its history it has arecord of innovation and working the marketto meet its loyal customer needs. Cessnacurrently manufactures nine business jetmodels and is the only general aviationmanufacturer to certify 11 new jets in the last10 years. The Mustang is the first of its kindand bridges the gap between the Citation jetsand the turboprop aircraft on offer from theWichita based company. Mustang waslaunched at the NBAA convention in 2002 andfirst flew on April 23 (Cessna promised a May2005 first flight and beat that schedule) It isdesignated as a Citation 510.

FLIGHTdepartments and owner-pilots are looking with

interest at the latest from the CessnaCitation stable, the entry-level Mustang.

The aircraft received certification forsingle pilot operations in early September –the first of the new breed of jets to achievefull certification. It has a top speed of340ktas, a range of 1,150nm (1323 statutemiles/2130km – NBAA IFR Reserves) and aservice ceiling of 41,000ft (12,500m) – wellsuited for getting above weather andcommercial traffic for more efficientoperations.

The Garmin G1000 equipped aircraft willbe one of the first to take advantage ofWAAS navigation features including LateralPerformance with Vertical Guidanceapproach (LPV) and WAAS VerticalNavigation (VNAV). WAAS is a GPS-basednavigation and landing system thatprovides precision guidance to aircraft atairports where there are currently noprecision landing capabilities. The Mustangwill also be one of the first aircraft certifiedwith the Garmin SafeTaxi feature.

Pratt & Whitney Canada has received

The Mustang hasthree windows oneither side with anemergency exit overthe central windowover the starboardwing. It has lowstraight wings witha swept T-tail andhigh set swepttailplane.It has a distinctiveextended underbellywhich allows theaircraft’sremarkable spaciouscabin. The twin PW 615F enginesare mid-mounted onthe rear fuselage.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE

initial certification from Transport Canadafor the dual-channel FADEC-controlledPW615F engines..

The Mustang is being built inIndependence Kansas with 19 aircraft inproduction for delivery in 2007. With nearly250 orders, the Mustang is sold out into thethird quarter of 2009. Currently, about 60percent of Mustang orders are from outsideof the United States, with 30 percent fromEurope. Other significant markets includeSouth America and Australia.

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EVIATION JETS EV20 VANTAGEIN

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ANOTHERVLJ is planned tobegin development

in the workshops in Brazil. Eviation’s twinjet Vantage is moving from the drawingboard to a prototype to replace the singleengine prototype.

The manufacturer will make use of thelow cost facilities in Brazil and certify theaircraft with CTA (Brazilian civil aviationauthority) who has a bilateral agreementwith the FAA.

The preliminary specifications suggest itis likely to offer a useful load of 4,200lbs(1,905kg) a maximum cruise speed of

427ktas (790km/h) and a ceiling altitude of41,000ft (12,496m).

Eviation Jets have chosen the WilliamsFJ44-1AP to power the aircraft with1,971lbs (8.77kN) of thrust and Garmin toprovide the avionics with its G1000 suite.

It will have seating for ten occupants inhigh density but it is believed that acorporate interior will seat six in therelatively roomy cabin.

The fuselage design is essentially theoriginal single engine version, but byremoving the single engine from its internalpositioning this has extended the fuselage

HERITAGE

SPOTTER’S GUIDEThe Vantage will feature a straight wingwith a T-tail with swept tail fin and tailplane. It will have five windows on eachside with the Williams engines mountedeither side of the rear fuselage.

Length 40' 8" 12.39mWingspan 49' 1" 14.973mHeight 15' 4" 4.66mCabin Length 17' 3" 5.26mCabin Width 5' 5" 1.65mCabin Height 5' 2" 1.52mCabin Volume 372 cu.ft 10.53m3Max Range 1,203nm 2,228kmMax Seating 2 + 8Typical Seating 2 + 6Powerplant 2x Williams FJ44-1AP 1,971lbs / 8.77kN eachAvionics Garmin G1000Max Cruise Speed 427KTAS 790km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,496mRate of Climb 3,000fpm 914mpmTake off Distance 2,500ft 762mLanding Distance 2,500ft 762mMTOW 9,250lbs 4,195kgMax Landing Weight 8,850lbs 4,014gUseful load 4,200lbs 1,905kgPayload with full fuel 1,450lbs 657kgPrice $3.25m €2.53m

SPECIFICATION

The Vantage was originally being developedby VisionAire, however after having spent$110m on development, the company wentbankrupt. The present version was purchased by an

Iowa property developer who obtained theintellectual rights for $441,000 in October2003. The Vantage started life with a single Pratt& Whitney JT15D-5 but has evolved tofeature two Williams FJ44-1APs. Only a prototype of the single engineVisonAire version currently exists but thecritical design review has been completedand the revised design prototype will followsoon.

and now offers a cabin length of 17’ 3”(5.26m).

It is expected that the aircraft will havea range of 1,203nm (2,228km) and carry1,450lbs (658kg) of passengers, crew andbaggage.

Effectively this equates to six passengersand a single pilot at 200lbs (90.7kg) eachand a 50lb (22kg) total baggage allowance.

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BRAZILIAN manufacturerEmbraer is the

fourth largest aircraft maker in the worldand has a reputation for delivering greataircraft. The Phenom 100 is a VLJ thatmany analysts believe will raise the bar forthe category.

It has all of the big business jetcomforts. The Phenom’s BMW-designedcabin is longer, taller and wider than itscompetitors which equates to morelegroom, a wardrobe and a smallrefreshment area. It also features aconventional lavatory with a solid doorrather than a curtained-off potty.

The aircraft also has 45 cubic feet ofexternal baggage space, enough for golfclubs, skis or of course luggage and afurther 10 cu.ft in the nose and cabin.

The Phenom 100 will be certified for upto eight people but the interior designbest suits four in the cabin with two seatsin the cockpit. It will be rated for singlepilot operation.

The aircraft is powered by Pratt &Whitney Canada's PW617F engine, with1,615lbs (7.18kN) of thrust giving acomfortable air taxi range of 1,160nm(2,148km) (NBAA IFR reserves with 100nmalternate) with four people onboard and itwill have a maximum operating speed ofMach 0.7. The aircraft is designed for ashort take off distance and is capable offlying at 41,000ft (12,497m).

Embraer anticipates the Phenom 100 willenter service in mid-2008.

HERITAGEThis is the first of its kind from Embraer. Thecompany is also building a light jet, thePhenom 300 due in 2009. The company’srecord for reliability with its regional jetprogramme is outstanding and the companyhas offered a fixed fee maintenanceprogramme. Embraer’s entry into the lightjet and VLJ markets was announced atEBACE in Geneva in May 2005 and the“Phenom” name unveiled at NBAA in Orlandoin November 2005.

The Phenom100 has alow, sweptdihedral wingwith a T-tailwith a highlyswepttailplane anda distinctivedorsal fin.The P&WCengines aremounted highon thefuselage tothe rear.There arefour windowson each side.


Wingspan 40’ 4” 12.3mHeight 14’ 4” 4.4mCabin Length 11' 3.35mCabin Width 5' 1" 1.55mCabin Height 4' 11" 1.5mMax Range (4) 1,160nm 2,148kmMax Seating 2 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 4Powerplant 2x P&WC PW535E 1,615lb/7.18kN eachAvionics Embraer ProdigyMax Cruise Speed 380ktas 703km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of ClimbTake off Distance 3,400ft 1,036mLanding Distance 3,000ft 914mMTOWMax Landing WeightUseful loadPayload with full fuelPrice $2.85m €2.22m

SPECIFICATION

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HONDAJET

THEHondaJet is very much a work inprogress, after its debut at Oshkosh

in 2005 Honda proclaimed to have no plansto go into production - one year later atOshkosh 2006 Honda announced it wasgoing to pursue certification and production.

Honda has teamed with Piper to create anew premium dealer and service network tobring the aircraft to market and aims tohave type certification sometime between2009 and 2010. Theover wing enginemounted design hasbeen coupled with anatural laminar flowwing and nose –essentially thisincreases efficiency atcruise speed by reducing wave drag andsurface friction drag with a high liftcoefficient. It makes use of compositematerials for the fuselage and preliminaryperformance specifications are promising.Honda claims that these aerodynamicdesign points and fuel efficient enginesallow it to operate some 30-35% moreefficiently than similar jets.

To date the prototype has completedmore than 240 hours of flight-testing since

Length 41’ 8” 12.7mWingspan 39’ 11” 12.2mHeight 13’ 2” 4.1mCabin LengthCabin WidthCabin HeightMax Range 1,100nm 2,037kmMax Seating 2 + 4/5Typical Seating 1 + 4/5Powerplant 2x GE-Honda HF118 2,000lb / 8.9kNMax Cruise Speed 420ktas 778km/hMax Ceiling 43,000ft 13,106mRate of ClimbTake off Distance 2,647ft 807mLanding Distance 2,277ft 694mMTOW 9,200lbs 4,173kgMax Landing WeightUseful LoadPayload with full fuelPrice

SPECIFICATION

July 2006 and has achieved an altitude of43,000ft and a speed of 412ktas and isexpected to meet or exceed all of its designspecifications.

It is currently fitted with the GarminG1000 avionics suite which comprises aprimary flight display for pilot and co-pilotand a central multi-function display.

It will be powered by two GE-HondaHF118 turbofans delivering 2,000lbs (8.9kN) of

thrust and be able tocruise at a maximumspeed of 420ktas(778km/h). It is alsoexpected that cabinnoise levels will belower due to thepositioning of the

engines and greater cabin space. The fuselageis constructed from a honeycomb sandwichstructure and co-cured stiffened panels whichreduce weight and manufacturing costs.

With a maximum take-off weight of9,200lbs (4,173kg) places the HondaJet atthe upper end of the VLJ category andcould be comparable to the CessnaMustang and Embraer Phenom 100. It isplanned to have a range of 1,100nm(2,037km) and seat six or seven.

HERITAGEHonda began researchin small business jets in1986, the first aircraftwas the Honda MH02built purely as atechnology test bed andwas manufacturedtotally fromcomposites. In 1999Honda developed itsown jet engine, theHF118 which wasdeveloped with GeneralElectric as part of theGE Honda partnership.The engine was actuallytest flown on a CessnaCitation. The presentHondaJet prototype firstflew in December 2003.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The Honda is obvious on the ramp because of the pod mounted engines above the wing. A T-tail and large winglets will also help to identify this jet.

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SPECTRUM 33

Length 45’ 11” 13.99mWingspan 42’ 1” 12.83mHeight 11’ 8” 3.56mCabin Length 17’ 6” 5.33mCabin Width 4’ 10” 1.47mCabin Height 4’ 10” 1.47mMax Range >1,750nm >3.238kmMax Seating 1 + 9Typical Seating 1 + 6Powerplant 2x Williams FJ33-4 1,568lbs/ 6.97kN eachAvionics TBCMax Cruise Speed 415ktas 768kmhMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of Climb 5,082fpm 1,549mpmTake off Distance <3,000ft <914mLanding Distance <2,700ft <823mMTOW 7,300lbs 3,311kgMax Landing WeightUseful load 3,680lbs 1,669kgPayload with full fuel 909lbs 412kgPrice $3.65m €2.84m

SPECIFICATIONHERITAGEThe Spectrum 33 is an allnew composite eight seatbusiness jet. Developedby Spectrum Aeronauticaland its subsiduray RockyMountain Composites thetwo companies havedeveloped the carbon fibrefuselage and wing byusing a fibre-placementprocess called fibeX whichhelps to reduce weight.The Williams FJ33-4powered aircraft wasunveiled at NBAA inOrlando, Florida November2005 and made its firstflight from Spanish Fork tonearby Provo airport on 7January 2006. UScertification wasscheduled for 2008.

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A MAJORsetback to theSpectrum 33 test

programme occurred when the only flyingprototype crashed on July 25 2006.Preliminary accident reports believe the crashto have been caused by a maintenance errorand subsequently the flying controls werereversed after a redesign to accommodatestrengthened main landing gear.

However, the preliminary specifications forthe Spectrum 33 offer a good spread ofcapability. It is aimed to have an IFR range inexcess of 1,750nm (3,238km) whilst being ableto cruise at a ceiling of 45,000ft (13,716m) at a

maximum cruise speed of 415ktas (768km/h).The Spectrum team is focused on getting

back on schedule and calculates that theirlight weight design is key to boosting fuelefficiency and that the 33 will have a fuel costof $0.71/nm ($0.38/km). Although the 33 canseat a maximum of nine passengers itsmaximum take off weight is only 7,300lbs(3,311kg) however it still has a useful load of3,680lbs (1,669kg) with a typical basic emptyweight of 3,620lbs (1,642kg). The emptyweight is comparable to piston engine twinssuch as the Piper Seneca V - 3,406 lbs (1,545 kg)or the Beechcraft Baron – 3,922lbs (1,779kg).

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The Spectrum 33 has a T-tail and rear pod mounted engines. The wings have a high aspect ratio(the aspect ratio refers to the total span of a wing divided by the mean chord – where the chord isthe length from the leading edge to the trailing edge) un-swept wing with winglets. Essentiallyhigh aspect ratio wings tend to be long and narrow, and low aspect ratios short and stubby. The 33 features five windows on each side and the cabin door is on the port side.

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Honeywell's market forecast anticipates deliveries of morethan 3,250 jets in these segments between 2006 and 2016,an increase of more than 12 percent compared with deliveryexpectations the previous year. Several new or proposedentrants to the category indicate the growth potential.

■ Sino Swearingen's SJ30 is one of the new kids on the block.Certified in 2005 the aircraft is already developing a reputationfor breaking speed and distance records for the segment. Artist Tim Hall.© Flight International – for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

NETJETSdecision to invest in theCitation Bravo

reinforced Cessna’s claim that the CitationBravo offers the rarest of win-winoutcomes – more power on less fuel. As aresult the Bravo flies 20 knots faster, climbsto altitude far more quickly, and coverseven more distance non-stop than itspredecessor – the Citation II

But following the success of the CJ3,Cessna is ending production of this light jetand are delivering the final orders this year.

The aircraft - powered by two Pratt &Whitney PW530A engines each delivering2,287lbs (12.84kN) of thrust - will be inservice for many years to come.

Bravo is certified for steep approachcapability allowing it access to steepapproach airports in Europe such as LondonCity Airport in the UK, Lugano Airport inSwitzerland and Seyer Airport in Germany.

The aircraft is equipped with HoneywellPrimus 1000 integrated avionics system,with a Honeywell GNSX flightmanagement system and an electronicflight information system, dual 7in x 8inscreen primary flight displays and a 7in x8in multi-function display.

The Honeywell navigation suite includesa VHF omni-directional ranger, distancemeasuring equipment and digital automaticdirection finder, Honeywell VG-14A verticalgyroscopes and a C-14 compass set. Theaircraft is fitted with a Honeywell Primus660 colour weather radar.

The aircraft is fitted with single-wheeled hydraulically-retractable tricycletype landing gear. The trailing link systemin the main landing gear gives smoothlanding characteristics.

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CESSNA CITATION BRAVO

Length 47' 2" 14.39mWingspan 52' 2" 15.9mHeight 15' 4.57mCabin Length 20' 10"* 6.31m*Cabin Width 4' 9" 1.47mCabin Height 4' 8" 1.45mMax Range (4) 1,744nm 3,232kmMax Seating 2 + 7Typical Seating 1 + 7Powerplant 2x P&WC PW530A 2,887lbs/12.84kN eachAvionics Honeywell Primus 1000Max Cruise Speed 402ktas 745km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,216mRate of Climb 3,190fpm 972mpmTake off Distance 3,600ft 1,097mLanding Distance 3,180ft 969mMTOW 14,800ft 6,713kgMax Landing Weight 13,500ft 6,123kgUseful load 5,560lbs 2,522gPayload with full fuel 736lbs 334gPrice $6.145m €4.886m*Forward Pressure bulkhead to aft pressure bulkhead

SPECIFICATION

CESSNA CITATION BRAVO SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The Bravo aircraft is of similar construction to the Cessna CitationJet with tapered three-sparwings attached to the lower fuselage and the podded Pratt & Whitney engines mid-mounted to therear fuselage. The T-tail has a tapered mid-set tailplane. There are six windows each side.

HERITAGEThe Bravo firstflew in April 1995.A development ofthe Cessna 550Citation II, it fliesto an altitude of 45,000ft(13,216m) andcarries up toseven passengers.The aircraft ismanufactured atCessna'sproductionfacilities inWichita, Kansas.The Citation II wasa stretchedversion of CitationI (Cessna 500) andfirst built in 1976,entering service in1978. Some 733aircraft were soldbefore the Bravoreplaced it whenentering service in1997.

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CESSNA CITATION CJ3

Length 50’ 2” 15.29mWingspan 53’ 4” 16.26mHeight 15’ 2” 4.62mCabin Length 15’ 8” 4.78mCabin Width 4’ 10” 1.47mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.45mMax Range 1,875nm 3,475kmMax Seating 2 + 8Typical Seating 2 + 6Powerplant 2x Williams-Rolls FJ44-3A 2,820lb/12.54kN eachAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed M 0.73 417KTAS/773km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of Climb 4,478fpmTake off Distance 3,180ft 969mLanding Distance 2,770ft 844mMTOW 13,870lb 6,291kgMax Landing Weight 12,750lb 5,783kgUseful load 5,370lb 2,436kgPayload with full fuel 660lb 299kgPrice $6.65m €5.19m

SPECIFICATION TAKEa Citation CJ2 give it an extra20 inches of cabin, add new

engines and extend the wing and you havethe CJ3 – the largest of the single pilot CJseries offered by Cessna.

The extra weight takes the CJ3 into thelight jet category where its seven seat cabinis proving very competitive. While it is ratedfor single pilot operation it works well inthe corporate environment – with two crew,four passengers and full fuel a range of1,875nm (3,457km), including direct climbto 45,000ft in 27min is the norm.

The CJ3 had some difficulties with initialcertification largely because of developmentproblems with the aircraft’s 2,780lbs (12.4kN)thrust Williams International FJ44-3Aturbofan but early problems were ironed outand Cessna say the engines are proving to bevery fuel efficient.

The CJ3 was very much a pioneering

The aircraft has a 0.53m longer wing span,0.3m taller vertical tail and a 0.15m longertailcone to house the Goodrich full-authoritydigital engine control (FADEC) units. Theaircraft is mainly of metal construction withlow weight composite materials in thefairings, wing tips and tailplane tips. TheCJ3 aircraft is of similar design to theoriginal CitationJet with tapered three-sparwings attached to the lower fuselage andpodded engines mounted above the rearfuselage. The T-tail has a tapered tailplane.It has seven windows on each side comparedto four on the CJ1+ and six on the CJ2+.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

aircraft. As well as the new engines, Cessnaintroduced an expanded Rockwell CollinsPro Line 21 integrated avionics system.Becoming the first aircraft to have a fileserver as part of the standard avionics andthe first to use electronic charts.

HERITAGEThe CJ3 first flew inApril 2003. Flighttesting of theengines began inAugust 2003. With a maximum takeoff weight of13,870lb (6,290kg),the CJ3 wascertificated forsingle-pilot operationunder FAR 23commuter-categoryrules, allowing acommon type ratingwith the smaller CJ1 and CJ2 aircraft.It was certified bythe FAA in October2004 – just two yearsafter it was launchedat NBAA.

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CESSNA CITATION ENCORE + NEW

CESSNA’Snewest upgrade ofthe Citation 560

family – the Encore+ - was awaitingcertification as this publication went topress. The Encore+ succeeds the Encore,offering increased efficiency, a newintegrated avionics suite, increased payloadcapability, more standard equipment, andnew interior styling features such as LEDindirect cabin lighting.

Propulsion for the Encore+ is generatedby twin Pratt & Whitney Canada PW535Bengines equipped with dual-channel FullAuthority Digital Engine Control (FADEC) andare rated at 3,400lbs (15.12kN) of thrust.

Maximum takeoff weight for theCitation Encore+ has been increased by200lbs (90kg) over the Encore, enabling thetypical operator to have a full fuel payload(in addition to two pilots) in excess of1,100lbs (499kg). The Citation Encore+ isexpected to be certified for single-pilotoperation.

The avionics on the Encore+ are the mostadvanced available on this class of businessjet. The integrated Collins Pro Line 21 avionicssuite encompasses many of the samefeatures as the Citation CJ3, CJ2+ and CJ1+.The heart of the integration resides in the File

Server Unit (FSU) serving as a portal todisplay electronic charting, graphical weather,and enhanced mapping in the cockpit.

Other integrated avionics features includePro Line 21 Communication, Navigation, andSurveillance (CNS) radios, and Collins FMS-3000 with performance database. The Encore+is equipped with standard Terrain CollisionAvoidance System (TCAS II), Mark VIII EnhancedGround Proximity Warning System (EGPWS),and broadcast graphical weather includingNext Generation Doppler Radar (NEXRAD)information, Meteorological Terminal AviationRoutine Weather Report (METARs), and textualTerminal Aerodrome Forecast (TAF).

Encore is thelargest of thestraight wingCitations andalso featuresthe low swepttailfins with alarge dorsal fin.It differs fromthe 550 series(Bravo) by theaddition of aseventh windowon either side.The two Pratt & Whitneyengines aremid-mounted on the rearfuselage.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE

HERITAGECitation Encore+ and Encore are part of theCitation 560 family developed from theCitation II which was first announced in1987. The first production model was calledthe Citation V delivered to the launchcustomer in 1989; this was followed by thederivative Citation Ultra in 1993 fitted withEFIS and increased payload and performanceand then in 1998 Cessna announced theaddition of powerful PW315 turbofans andthe designation Citation Encore. TheEncore+ with the new engines first flew inMarch 2006 and is due to deliver to firstcustomer early in 2007.

Length 48’ 11” 14.91mWingspan 54’ 1” 16.48mHeight 15’ 2” 4.62mCabin Length 17’ 4” 5.28mCabin Width 4’ 10” 1.47mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.45mMax Range 1,760nm 3,262kmMax Seating 2 + 11Typical Seating 2 + 7Powperplant 2x P&WC PW535B 3,400lb/15.12kNAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed M 0.74 428KTAS/793km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ftRate of Climb 13,716mTake off Distance 3,590ft 1,094mLanding Distance 2,770ft 844mMTOW TBD once CertifiedMax Landing Weight TBD once CertifiedUseful load 6,430lb 2,917kgPayload with max fuel 1,030lb 467kgPrice $8.06m €6.29m

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EMBRAER PHENOM 300

A LATEentry into the light jetmarket, but Brazilian

manufacturer Embraer is confident thatthere is room and will argue that it ispreparing an aircraft that will lead the class.

The manufacturer is offering premiumcomfort, outstanding performance and lowoperating cost with range, baggage spaceand speed performance targets thatcompare well.

It will be powered by Pratt & WhitneyCanada's PW535E engine, with 3,200lbs(14.23kN) of thrust.

Comfortably accommodating up tonine people, the Phenom 300 range willbe 1,800nm (NBAA IFR reserves with100nm alternate) with six people onboard,and will have a maximum operating speedof Mach 0.78.

Up front the cockpit features a Prodigyflight deck, based on Garmin´s G1000avionics system.

The panel features three 12-inchdisplays, with two PFDs and one multi-function display. The cockpit is the same asin the Phenom 100.

HERITAGEThe Phenom 300 is thesecond of the light jetsbeing brought tomarket by Embraer –the first is the VLJPhenom 100 which isdue to be certified in2008. The 300 wasannounced at aninvestment analystsmeeting in Washingtonon May 3rd 2005 andunveiled at EBACE afew weeks later. The Phenom namewas announced atNBAA in November2005 and the aircraftis due to be certifiedand enter service inmid 2009.

Length 50’ 11” 15.5mWingspan 53’ 2” 16.2mHeight 16’ 4” 5mCabin Length 16' 4.9mCabin Width 5' 1" 1.55mCabin Height 4' 11" 1.5mMax Range (6) 1,800nm 3,333kmMax Seating 2 + 7Typical Seating 1 + 7Powerplant 2x P&WC PW535E 3,200lbs/14.23kN eachAvionics Embraer ProdigyMax Cruise Speed 450ktas 833km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of ClimbTake off Distance 3,700ft 1128mLanding Distance 2,920ft 890mMTOWMax Landing WeightUseful loadPayload with full fuelPrice $6.65m €5.19m

SPECIFICATION

SPOTTER’S GUIDEAs a derivative of the Phenom 100 theoutline is similar but the Phenom 300 isclearly bigger. There is much greater sweepof the low wings with winglets. There is a T-tail and highly swept tailplane.There are five windows on the left of theaircraft and six on the right.

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COMBINING theperformance

and passenger comfort of a light businessjet with the operational versatility of aturboprop, German trainer manufacturerstunned the aviation world when it createda new class of “Utility Jet” aircraft behindclosed doors and revealed an actual aircraftat the Paris air show.

The Grob SPn offers excellent rangepayload capability, robust short fieldperformance, exceptional cabin volume andcargo conversion capability through itswide passenger door which is large enoughto take a Euro-container.

With double club seating configuration(eight passengers in standard configuration)the cabin has 405 cu. ft. (11.5m3) of space.Quick change capabilities allow this aircraftto accommodate cargo, passengers or bothto a maximum payload of 2,491 lbs (1,130kg).A full lavatory is located forward in thestandard configuration.

The Grob SPn sits high off the groundallowing easy ongoing operation from“unimproved” runways which are usuallythe exclusive domain of turboprops and areoften comprised of gravel or grass surfaces.

It will be certified for single-pilot operation. The spacious cockpit features a Honeywell

Apex suite. The Grob SPn comes fullyequipped with state-of-the-art systems suchas TCAS II with change 7 (Traffic CollisionAvoidance System), EGPWS (EnhancedGround Proximity Warning System) andFADEC (Full Authority Digital Engine Control).

HERITAGEThe Grob SPn was revealed to the world at theParis Airshow in June 2005 as a fullyassembled aircraft – including a full interiorconcept mock-up. The first flight followed inJuly 2005 with the second prototype appearingat EBACE, Geneva in May 2006. EASAcertification is expected mid 2007 with FAAcertification and first deliveries later in theyear. The Grob SPn will be type certified in the“commuter category” for single-pilot operationunder EASA CS 23 and FAA Part 23 regulations.The aircraft will be compliant for single-pilotoperation under both VFR day/night, IFR andknown icing conditions. It also will meetRVSM, MNPS and P-RNAV requirements.With a total of more than 3,500 aircraftproduced and delivered globally, GrobAerospace claims to be the world’s largestand most experienced manufacturer ofcomposite aircraft.

The Grob SPn isan all-compositestructure aircraftpowered by tworear-mountedFADEC controlledWilliams FJ44-3Aturbofan engines.It low straightwings withwinglets. A swepttailfin with mid-set swepttailplane. It hassix windows oneach side andfeatures anexceptionallylarge cabin doorwith spyholewindow.


Wingspan 48’ 9” 14.86mHeight 16’ 10” 5.12mCabin Length 16’ 9” 5.10mCabin Width 5’ 1.52mCabin Height 5’ 5” 1.64mMax Range (6) 1,800nm 3,334kmCabin Volume 406 cu.ft 11.5m3Max Seating 1 + 9 / 2 + 8Typical Seating 1 + 6Powerplant 2x Williams FJ44-3A 2,820lbs/12.5kN eachAvionics Honeywell ApexMax Cruise Speed 407ktas 754km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 4,360fpm 1,320mpmTake off Distance 3,000ft 914mLanding Distance 2,670ft 814mMTOW 13,889lbs 6,300kgMax Landing Weight 13,448lbs 6,100kgUseful load 4,861lbs 2,205kgPayload with full fuel 451lbs 205kgPrice $7.43m €5.8m

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HAWKER 400XP

XP for Hawker – the larger jet brand forRaytheon Aircraft – stands for “Extended

Performance” allowing the manufacturer to offer anextra seat or extra fuel for more range.

The Hawker 400XP is a key part of the NetJets fleetand typical layouts are for an eight-seat configurationwith private lavatory compartment and refreshmentfacilities. The cabin length is 15’6” (4.72m) with awidth of 4’11” (1.50m) and a height of 4’9” (1.45m).

Maximum range with a four-person payload ismore than 1,476nm (2,734km) with IFR reserves andcruise speed is 465ktas (860km/h).

It is equipped with two Pratt & Whitney CanadaJT15D-5 axial flow turbofan engines with standardNordan thrust reversers. The engines are each ratedat 2,965lb (13.19kN) take-off power.

HERITAGEThe aircraft is derived from theMitsubishi MU-300 Diamond which firstflew in 1978. Beech entered anagreement with Mitsubishi in 1985 toacquire the rights to the Diamond IIand made a number of designmodifications to improve theperformance of the aircraft. It firstflew in 1990 as the Beechjet 400A andin May 2003 was renamed the Hawker400XP thanks to its increase in grossweight of 200lb (90kg). The aircraftalso operates in a defence role as amilitary trainer for Japan and as atanker trainer for the USAF where it isdesignated Beechjet T1A Jayhawk.

The Hawker400XP hasfive windowson each sidewith a lowswept wingand swept T-tail andtailplane. Italso has asmall ventralfin. The pairof Pratt &WhitneyCanadaJT15D-5engines aremounted onthe rearfuselage.


Wingspan 43’ 6” 13.26mHeight 13’ 11” 4.24mCabin Length 15’ 6” 4.72mCabin Width 4’ 11” 1.50mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.45mMax Range (4) 1,482nm 2,744kmMax Seating 2 + 9Typical Seating 2 + 7Powerplant 2x P&WC JT15D-5 2,965lb/13.19kN eachAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4Max Cruise Speed M0.78 450KTAS/833km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of ClimbTake off Distance 3,906ft 1,191mLanding Distance 3,514ft 1,071mMTOW 16,300lbs 7,394kgMax Landing Weight 15,700lbs 7,121kgUseful load 5,550lbs 2,517kgPayload with full fuel 638lbs 289kgPrice $7.14m €5.57m

SPECIFICATION

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Light Jets

144

LEARJET 40 XR

THE first Learjet 40XR was deliveredin December 2005 as a higher-

performance variant of Bombardier’sentry-level Learjet. The Learjet 40 is itselfa derivative of the cutting-edge of theLearjet 45. The aircraft brings real hotand high-performance characteristics tothe light market.

The XR’s upgrade to Honeywell’sTFE731-20BR powerplants from theoriginal –20AR version on the Learjet 40,gives increased range out of highaltitude, short runway destinations suchas Aspen, Colorado and Jackson Hole,Wyoming.

Weighing in at 21,250lbs (9,639kg),the 40XR boasts a cabin 17’ 7” (5.39m)long with space for up to sevenpassengers.

However, normal operations are morelikely to be four passengers and twocrew where nominal cruise range willexceed 1,800nm (3,378km) with NBAAIFR reserves and the capability ofachieving 51,000ft maximum operatingaltitude.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The Learjet 40 is a straightforward shrink of the 45. To pare the super light design down to fit the lightjet niche, 24.5in (62cm) of fuselage was removed forward of the wing, along with three of the original16 cabin windows. Six or seven windows will tell you the difference between the 40 and its big sister.

Length 55’ 6” 16.93mWingspan 47’ 8” 14.56mHeight 14’ 1” 4.31mCabin Length 17’ 7” 5.39mCabin Width 5’ 1” 1.56mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.50mMax Range 1,824nm 3,378kmMax Seating 2 + 7Typical Seating 2 + 6Powperplant 2x Honeywell TFE31-20BR 3,500lbs/15.56kNAvionics Honeywell Primus 1000Max Cruise Speed M 0.81 465ktas/860km/hMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb 1,869fpm 569mpmTake off Distance 4,680ft 1,426mLanding Distance 2,660ft 811mMTOW 21,000lb 9,525kgMax Landing Weight 19,200lb 8,709kgUseful load 7,285lb 3,304kgPayload with full fuel 2,160lb 978kgPrice $8.75m €6.83m

SPECIFICATION

Learjet is the Granddaddy of business jets, Bill Lear’sfirst Learjet 23 launched in 1963 revolutionised theindustry carrying seven passengers andoutperforming the US Airforce frontline fighteraircraft (the F100) which could reach 40,000ft in justover seven minutes. The phrase “jet set” was coined for people whowould make use of this new form of transportation.

HERITAGE

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Light Jets

146

SINO SWEARINGEN SJ30

THE SJ30 is touted by Sino Swearingenas the world’s fastest and longest-

range light business jet available. It has amaximum cruise speed of 486ktas(900km/h) – 2kts slower than theGulfstream G450 and a long range cruise of2,500nm (4,630km). The SJ30 offers sea-level cabin pressurisation up to 41,000ft, atits ceiling of 49,000ft the cabin altitude isonly 1,800ft. The cabin is a club fourarrangement and the rear seats can befolded down to create a double bed. It isthe only aircraft in its class to have leadingedge slats which help to generate lift atslower speeds, thereby reducing stall speedand the approach speed – the slatscompensate for the reduced efficiency ofthe swept wing which has optimumefficiency at high speed.

The two fuel efficient Williams FJ44-2Aprovide 2,300lbs (10.23kN) each and powerthe aircraft to a range of 2,500nm.Honeywell Epic avionics are the standard fitwith three large 8-by-10-inch flat paneldisplays, with two primary flight displays(PFD), one for each pilot and a multi-function display in the centre.

The first aircraft was delivered inSeptember 2006, and currently theprogramme is undertaking production rampup. The SJ30 was shown at Farnborough inJuly 2006 having established a world recordfor a light business jet by flying from its USbase in San Antonio, Texas to Farnboroughin 10h 24min, including a 42min refuellingstop at Goose Bay, Canada, The jet flewGoose Bay-Farnborough direct, setting aspeed and range record.

Length 46’ 11” 14.95mWingspan 42’ 4” 12.89mHeight 14’ 3” 4.33mCabin Length 12’ 6” 3.81mCabin Width 4’ 10” 1.47mCabin Height 4’ 4” 1.32mMax Range 2,500nm 4630kmMax Seating 1 + 6Typical Seating 1 + 5Powerplant 2x Williams FJ44-2A 2,300lbs / 10.23kN eachAvionics Honeywell EpicMax Cruise Speed 486ktas 900km/hMax Ceiling 49,000ft 14,935mRate of Climb 3,700fpm 1,127mpmTake off Distance 3,515ft 1,071mLanding Distance 2,555ft 868mMTOW 13,950lbs 6,340kgMax Landing Weight 12,725lbs 5,784kgUseful load 5,400lbs 2,454kgPayload with full fuel 550lbs 249kgPrice $6.195m €4.83m

SPECIFICATION

NEW

HERITAGE

Named the SJ30because it wasfounder Ed Swearingen’sthirtieth design itwas conceived in1986 but due tofunding setbacks andthe crash of theprototype in 2003 theproject took longerthan expected.However FAAcertification wasawarded in October2005, icing and cabincertification wereawarded in April 2006and EASAcertification isexpected late 2007.

SWEARINGEN SJ30 2 SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The SJ30 has a highly swept wing (32°) with five windows each side and a T-tail. The podded Williamsengines are mid-mounted to the fuselage and similar to the LearJet, it has a single vertical fin underthe tail.

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Manufacturers are looking at upgrading, speed size andcomfort while still remaining in the Light Jet category wherethe Cessna and Bombardier products go head to head for ashare of the top end of this market segment.

■ The Learjet 45 is the first all-new Learjet since the originalLearjet 23 launched almost 40 years earlier. Fast in the climband smooth in the cruise it is a true Learjet.Artist Tim Hall.© Flight International – for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

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Super Light Jets

150

CESSNA CITATION XLS

WITHabout a million hours ofoperation and more than 500

aircraft sold it is no wonder that the XLS – andthe Excel before it – has been described as the“workhorse” for short-range charter operators.

Customers like the stand-up cabin, andoperators like the economy, purchase price,operating cost, ease of maintenance andfield service support.

The 560 series began with the CitationXL, which was granted Federal AviationAdministration type certification in April

1998. The XL received a block point changein 2004 and became the XLS.

The XLS travels as fast as 500mph, has arange of more than 1,800nm (3,334km),climbs direct to 45,000ft (13,716m) in 29minutes, and can land on runways as shortas 3,560ft (1,085m).

The first European delivery, to anoperator in Portugal, occurred late in 2004.

The Excel was one of the firstapplications for the new generation PW-500 series engines.

HERITAGE

The Citation XLScarries thedesignation 560XL.Announced atNBAA in 1994 asthe Citation XL, itmade use of thewing and tail ofthe Encore andcombined it with a shortenedCitation X fuselage.Once in productionit was renamedthe Excel.The Excel firstflew in February1996. The upgraded XLS took over in 2004.

Length 51’ 10” 15.79mWingspan 56’ 4” 17.17mHeight 17’ 2” 5.24mCabin Length 18’ 6” 5.64mCabin Width 5’ 6” 1.68mCabin Height 5’ 8” 1.73mMax Range 1,939nm (full fuel MTOW) 3,593kmMax Seating 2 + 10Typical Seating 2 + 8Powperplant 2x P&WC PW545B 3,991lb/17.75kN eachAvionics Honeywell Primus 1000 Max Cruise Speed M 0.75 433KTAS/802km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of Climb 3,500fpm 1,067mpmTake off Distance 3,560ft 1,085mLanding Distance 3,180ft 969mMTOW 20,200lbs 9,163kgMax Landing Weight 18,700lbs 8,482kgUseful load 7,600lbs 3,447kgPayload with full fuel 860lbs 390kgPrice $10.7 €8.35m

SPECIFICATION

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The XLS has six windows on the port side and five on starboard of this shortened Citation Xfuselage (the same fuselage cross section as the Citation III, VI and VII). Look for the modifiedunswept supercritical wing and, the cruciform tail configuration and two ventral strakes.

152

BOMBARDIER LEARJET 45 XR

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Super Light Jets

THE Learjet 45 XR is proving popularwith charter operators around

the world. The upgraded derivative of theLearjet 45 has improved performancecharacteristics for hot and high fieldsthanks to the Honeywell TFE731-20BR-engines, upgraded from the 731-20AR

Like all of the Learjet models,Bombardier prides itself on itsunmatched time-to-climb performance.

The aircraft will typically fly nearly2,000nm (3,675km) with eightpassengers on board.

With four passengers it has amaximum range of 2,087nm (3,865km).

A high speed cruise of Mach 0.81(465 ktas or 860km/h) at 51,000ft(15,545m) puts it way above commercialtraffic.

It can climb to 43,000ft in just 25minutes with maximum gross take offweight.

The Learjet 45 with the –AR enginesare still available, but with reduced valueon re-sale are not so popular and sincethe first delivery in July 2004 the XR iseasily the most popular choice.

It can carry up to nine passengers.

LEARJET 45

Length 57’ 6” 17.56mWingspan 47’ 8” 14.56mHeight 14’ 1” 4.31mCabin Length 19’ 8” 6.02mCabin Width 5’ 1” 1.56mCabin Height 4’ 9” 1.50mMax Range 2,087nm 3,865kmMax Seating 2 + 9Typical Seating 2 + 6Powperplant 2x Honeywell TFE7361-20-BR 3,500lbs/15.56kNAvionics Honeywell Primus 1000Max Cruise Speed M 0.81 465ktas/860km/hMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb 1,720fpm 524mpmTake off Distance 5,040ft 1,536mLanding Distance 2,660ft 811mMTOW 21,500lbs 9,752kgMax Landing Weight 19,200lbs 8,709kgUseful load 7,610lb 3,451kgPayload with full fuel 1,800lbs 816kgPrice $11.15m €8.67m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEThe Learjet 45 launched in September 1992 wasthe first all-new Learjet since the original Learjet23 launched almost 40 years earlier. The aircraftwas the first business-jet to be fully designed oncomputer rather than paper (CAD). A smaller derivative of the aircraft was launchedas the Learjet 40 in 2002. The Learjet 45 was the first business jet under35,000lbs to receive type approval from Europe’s JAA.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The Learjet 45XR has eight windows on each side plus the T-tail and the Learjetwinglets makes it easily recognisable on the ramp.

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Traditionally, the Mid-Size segment has been the most hotlycontested as it is a popular size for the fractional fleet operators.Honeywell in its market outlook predicts new aircraft deliveries inboth the Mid-Size and the Super Mid-Size will rise from 250 in 2006to average around 300 units annually through 2016. Total deliveriesover the 10 year period will be in the region of 3,300 aircraft.Aircraft in the two categories include all-new designs andderivatives of airliner platforms.

■ Embraer's Legacy 600 falls in the Mid-Size, Super Mid-Sizecategory but with all the benefits of an airliner airframe thatcan challenge the much larger jets with its huge cabin volume.Artists: Tim Hall and Giuseppe Picarella© Flight International – for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

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156

CESSNA CITATION SOVEREIGN

TWELVEpassengers can be takenon Cessna’s King of the

Mid-Size jets. The Sovereign was designedto meet specific growing market needs forthis category of aircraft. Its stand-up cabinis 25’ 3” in length and 5’ 9” in height – thelargest of any Citation - with an in-cabinbaggage storage compartment thatcomfortably accommodates a large volumeof luggage, briefcases and garment bags.The external baggage area is some 100 cu.ft(or 1,000lbs).

The Sovereign has a 459 knot cruisespeed, 2,603nm (4821km) still-air range,3,580ft (1.091m) take off distance, 2,650ft(808m) landing distance at max landingweight, and 47,000ft (14,325m) ceiling.

This gives the aircraft the potential tooperate at many smaller airports.

As well as proving to have goodoperating costs the aircraft has a goodenvironmental performance and was therecipient of the first-ever EASA typecertification data sheet for noise.

Length 63' 7" 19.37mWingspan 63' 2" 19.24mHeight 20' 5" 6.20mCabin Length 25’ 3” 7.70mCabin Width 5' 10" 1.73mCabin Height 5' 9" 1.70mMax Range (8) 2,603nm 4,821kmMax Seating 2 + 12Typical Seating 2 + 8Powperplant 2x P&WC PW306C 5,770lbs/25.67kN eachAvionics Honeywell Epic Max Cruise Speed M 0.80 458KTAS/848km/hMax Ceiling 47,000ft 14,325mRate of Climb 4,016fpm 1224mpmTake off Distance 3,580ft 1,091mLanding Distance 2,650ft 808mMTOW 30,000lbs 13,608kgMax Landing Weight 27,100lb 12,292kgUseful load 12,550lb 5,693kgPayload with full fuel 934lbs 424kgPrice $15.48m €12.08m

SPECIFICATION

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

Eight cabin windows on the right side and seven windows on the left mark the difference betweenthe Citation 680 Sovereign and the 560XL aircraft. Quite clearly the largest of the Citations it alsofeatures a mid-set swept tailplane and a low straight wing with a swept back leading edge.

HERITAGEAlthough promoted as a“clean sheet design”, theCessna 680 Sovereign isbased on the Excel'sfuselage and shares somecommon systems. Howeverit does include an all newwing and stretched theExcel fuselage by 4'11"(1.5m) to keep down costsand reduce developmenttime. Cessna claims theSovereign's 12 passenger –although more normallyeight seat cabin - is thelargest in its class with 40%more volume than theBombardier Learjet 60 and18% more than Raytheon’sHawker competitor. Sovereign was announcedin 1998, first flew inFebruary 2002 and receivedFAA type certification inJune 2004 with firstcustomer deliveries inSeptember that year toMexico and Green Bay,USA. It received EASAcertification in April 2005.

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EMBRAER LEGACY 600

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Mid-Size Jets

THELegacy marked Brazilian Embraer'sintroduction in the business

aviation market. Based on the successfulEmbraer 135 and 145 regional jet theairframe has been modified to produce amid-size aircraft with space to challengemuch larger traditional business jets.

It features a remarkable 1,410 cu.ft(40.0m3) cabin area.

Embraer’s designers developed a conceptof three cabin zones which providescomfort and privacy for the passengers.

As a regional jet the aircraft has provenhigh-utilization performance and has many

of the airliner benefits such as trailing linklanding gear, which helps make nearly everylanding perfect. It features fuel-efficientRolls-Royce AE 3007 A1E engines anddelivers up to 3,250nm of range, givingtransatlantic routing.

It is also certified for steep approaches andwas for some time the largest business jetable to land at London’s City Airport. (TheAirbus ACJ seized that mantle in May 2006.)

There are two configurations available,the Legacy Executive with up to 15 seatsand the Legacy Corporate Shuttleconfigured with up to 19 seats.

EMBRAER LEGACY SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The aircraft has a circular cross-section fuselage, rear-mounted high by-pass ratio Rolls-Royceengines, low-mounted swept wings with blended winglets and a T-tail with swept tailplane. Thewings are of two-spar wing design, with a third spar to support the landing gear. The Legacy hasintegral wing tanks, belly tanks and aft fuel tanks in extended fairings on the underwing.

Length 86’ 5” 26.33mWingspan 68’ 11” 21.17mHeight 22’ 2” 6.76mCabin Length 42’ 6” 12.94mCabin Width 6’ 11” 2.1mCabin Height 6’ 1.83mMax Range (8) 3,250nm 6,019kmMax Seating 2 + 19Typical Seating 2 + 14Powerplant 2x Rolls-Royce AE3007A1E 8,100lbs/36.03kN eachAvionicsMax Cruise Speed 460ktas 852km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 3,052fpm 930mpmTake off Distance 5,453ft 1,662mLanding Distance 2,685ft 823mMTOW 49,604lbs 22,500kgMax Landing Weight 40,786lbs 18,500kgUseful load 19,451lbs 8,825kgPayload with full fuel 1,440lbs 653kgPrice $23.6m €18.41m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGETransformation of thebasic ERJ-135 airframethat evolved into theLegacy included theaddition of seven-footwinglets for added lift anddrag reduction; fuselagereinforcements forunderbelly and cargocompartment fuel tanksand a modified fuel-transfer system. Theconcept of the Legacy wasfirst mooted in 1999 andformally unveiled at theFarnborough Airshow inJuly 2000. First flight tookplace the following April.It received typecertification from theBrazilian CTA in December2001, from the EuropeanJoint Aviation Authorities(JAA) in July 2002, andfrom the USA FederalAviation Administration(FAA) in September 2002.Early concerns aboutmaximum ceilinglimitations were droppedwhen in 2004 Embraerupgraded the aircraft to flyat 41,000ft (12,497m).

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GULFSTREAM G150

Length 56’ 9” 17.30mWingspan 55’ 7” 16.94mHeight 19’ 1” 5.82mCabin Length 17’ 8” 5.38mCabin Width 5’ 9” 1.75mCabin Height 5’ 9” 1.75mMax Range (4) 2,950nm (M 0.75) 5,467kmMax Seating 2 + 8Typical Seating 2 + 6-8Powperplant 2x Honeywell TFE 731-40AR 4,420lb/19.66kN eachAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed M 0.80 459KTAS/850km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of Climb 3,340fpm 1,018mpmTake off Distance 5,000ft 1,524mLanding Distance 2,880ft 878mMTOW 26,100lbs 11,839kgMax Landing Weight 21,700lbs 9,843kgUseful load 11,000lbs 4,990kgPayload with full fuel 850lbs 386kgPrice $13.5m €10.53m

SPECIFICATION

NEW

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Mid-Size jets

GULFSTREAM G150

THEcollaborative efforts of Gulfstreamand Israeli Aircraft Industries

brought the wide-cabin, high-speed G150business jet into service in August 2006.

This is Gulfstream’s first true mid-sizebusiness jet and has seen improvements inboth cabin comfort and performance fromthe G100 which it replaces.

Following extensive flight testing,Gulfstream determined the G150’smaximum range had proven better thanoriginally projected. Drag reduction effortsresulted in an additional 250 nautical milesand a new maximum range of 2,950nautical miles with two flight crewmembers and four passengers onboard.Additionally, the G150’s required balancedfield length was also better than firstprojected enabling access to more fieldswith short take-off lengths.

Gulfstream offers a choice of threecabin configurations of its unique ovalcabin cross-section, the aircraft canaccommodate six to eight passengers andfeatures ample aisle space and generouslegroom and headroom when seated.

HERITAGEGulfstream introduced the G150 in September2002. On May 3, 2005, the G150 completed itsfirst flight, which lasted 4 hours, 13 minutes.The G150 received its certification from both theCivil Aviation Administration of Israel (CAAI) andthe Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) onNov. 7, 2005, 10 weeks ahead of schedule. Thismarked the first time that two civil aviationagencies certified the same aircraft on the sameday. The G150 is based on the G100 but withan enlarged fuselage The G100 was created following Gulfstream’scollaboration with IAI. Previously the aircraftwas known as the Astra SPX, itself aderivative of the The IAI-1125 Astra whichwas an upgraded development of thesuccessful IAI-1124 Westwind. The Westwindwas derived from the Aero Commander 1121.More than 160 of the type are in service.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The fully-equipped G150 flight deckfeatures Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Avionics. Also included is Gulfstream’ssignature Cursor Control Device (CCD),which is standard equipment on all ofGulfstream’s large-cabin aircraft – the G550,G500, G450 and G350.

Despite having a larger cabin than the old G100/Astra SPX Gulfstream have reduced the number ofwindows by one – there are five on the left-hand side and six on the right-hand side. Originally ithad six rectangular windows but these have given way to the distinct “oval” Gulfstream look.The low swept wing with winglets and the swept tailfin with low mounted swept tailplane remainvery similar to the G100.

162

HAWKER 850XP

The Hawker 800Series has 6windows on eachside, differentiatingit from the Hawker(or BAE 125) 1000which has eight.The aircraftfeatures a highlyswept tailfin with ahigh mounted swepttailplane ratherthan a T-tail. TheHoneywell TFE-731engines aremounted on thesides of the rearfuselage. The850XP has wingletsfitted as standard.


Wingspan 54’ 4” 16.56mHeight 18’ 1” 5.51mCabin Length 21’ 4” 6.50mCabin Width 6’ 1.83mCabin Height 5’ 9” 1.75mMax Range (6) 2,595nm (LRC – 402KTAS) 4,806kmMax Seating 2 + 15Typical Seating 2 + 8Powerplant 2x Honeywell TFE 731-5BR 4,660lb / 20.7kNAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed 447ktas 828km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 2,990fpm 911mpmTake off Distance 5,032ft 1,534mLanding DistanceMTOW 28,000lbs 12,701kgMax Landing Weight 23,350lbs 10,591kgUseful load 11,790lbs 5,348kgPayload with full fuel 1,790lbs 812kgPrice $13.78m €10.75m

SPECIFICATION

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Mid-Size Jets

HAWKER’Sname andreputation has

grown around this aircraft – the world’sbest-selling business jet and very much theworkhorse of flight departments andcharterers worldwide.

The flight deck includes the fully-integratedRockwell Collins Pro Line 21 with theRockwell Collins IFIS, and the six-foot(1.83m) wide cabin has plenty of room forthe nine to 11 seat configurations.

The 850XP saw the introduction ofRaytheon’s own blended winglets whichhas improved range and performance inhot and high environments, an eightpercent improvement in time-to-climbperformance, as well as slightly fasterairspeeds and block speeds

The maximum range of 2,710nm(5,019km) makes it suitable for mostmissions across Europe or North America.

HERITAGEThe Hawker 850XP is a derivative of theworld's longest running corporate jetproduction program and the best sellingbusiness jet of all times – the Britishdesigned DH-125 (later the HS-125), whichfirst flew in August 1962. The 125-800 first flew in May 1983 and itintroduced a number of improvements overthe BAe 125.BAE Systems sold its corporate aircraftdivision to Raytheon in 1993 whotransferred production to the US in 1997and also gave the aircraft the Hawker 800nomenclature. The aircraft was the first corporate jet tofeature an EFIS cockpit.The 800XP (Extended Performance) wascertificated in 1995 with improved enginesfor better climb and cruise performance.Further improvements in 2005 led to thecertification of the 850XP and the aircraftmade its debut at EBACE in Geneva.

164

BOMBARDIER LEARJET 60 XR

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Mid-Size Jets

THIS is the latest of the Learjetfamily with certification in late

2006 and first delivery due in the firstquarter of 2007.

Powered by two Pratt & WhitneyPW305A turbofan engines the aircraftboasts outstanding climb capabilities andstate-of-the-art avionics with the newRockwell Collins Pro Line 21 suite with fourLCD screens as well as all the latest inweather radar, and flight managementsystems.

Like its predecessor, the Learjet 60 SE(Special Edition), it will cruise at Mach 0.81(859 kmh) at 51,000 feet.

The original Learjet 60 first flew inOctober 1990 with two crew. The new XRalso features an upgraded interior, whichallows for two crew and up to ninepassengers. With four passengers theaircraft has a range of 2,451nm (4,539km).

HERITAGEThe Learjet 60 entered service in 1993 as areplacement for the Model 55, introduced 12years earlier as the first Learjet type with astand up cabin and a full-size lavatory. Bombardier delivered 300 Learjet 60 aircraftbefore upgrading to the Learjet 60SE whichincluded previous optional extras asstandard. The learjet SE is now supercededby the new Learjet 60 XR.

Length 58' 8.3" 17.89mWingspan 43' 9.5" 13.35mHeight 14' 6.7" 4.44mCabin Length 17' 8" 5.39mCabin Width 5’ 11” 1.80mCabin Height 5' 8.5" 1.74mMax Range 2,451nm 4,539kmMax Seating 2 +9Typical Seating 2 + 6Powperplant 2x P&WC PW305A 4,600lbs / 20.46kNAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed M 0.81 466ktas /863 km/hMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb 2,277fpm 694mpmTake off Distance 5,540ft 1,661mLanding Distance 3,420ft 1,042mMTOW 23,500lb 10,659kgMax Landing Weight 19,500lb 8,845kgUseful load 8,515lb 3,862kgPayload with full fuel 855lb 388kgPrice $12.9m €10.06m

SPECIFICATION

At only one foot longer than the super light Learjet 45, judging by length will not help. Howeverthe Learjet 60 is much wider. Look for six windows and the two-angle sweep of the wing.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

NEW

Super Mid-Size Jets

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Growth in this segment is being fuelled by the introduction of newmodels, both near term and in the later years of the forecastperiod. Again the OEMs are looking at extending the performancein speed, comfort or range in order to step up the class.

■ The Citation X is currently the top-of-the-range Cessnamodel and the fastest civil aircraft in the world with itscruise speed just below the speed of sound.Transatlantic missions leave others hours behind. Artist: David Hatchard© Flight International – for more information oncutaways see www.flightglobal.com/cutaways

C G 300

168

BOMBARDIER CHALLENGER 300

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Super Mid-Size Jets

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

Look for the low swept wing with winglets with the six familiar Bombardier shapedwindows starting midway over the wing. There is a swept T-tail with a swept tailplane.

The BD-100 Challenger 300 is the first of this family.

HERITAGE

Length 68.63ft 20.92mWingspan 63.84ft 19.46mHeight 20.33ft 6.20mCabin Length 28.6ft 8.72mCabin Width 7.17ft 2.19mCabin Height 6.08ft 1.85mMax Range (8) 3,100nm 5,741kmMax Seating 2 + 9Typical Seating 2 + 8Powperplant 2x Honeywell HTF7000 6,826lbs/30.4kN eachAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Max Cruise Speed M0.82 470kts/870km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of Climb 4,450fpm 1,356 mpmTake off Distance 4,810ft 1,466mLanding Distance 2,600ft 792mMTOW 38,850lb 17,622kgMax Landing Weight 33,750lb 15,309kgUseful load 15,350lb 6,962kgPayload with full fuel 1,350lb 612kgPrice $19.2m €14.98m

SPECIFICATION

INITIALLYchristened the“Continental”

because of its ability to fly coast-to-coastUSA, the Challenger 300 meets Canadianmanufacturer Bombardier’s belief that itcould deliver a large cabin aircraft withlower direct operating costs than anythingelse in the super-mid-size category.

When launching the programme at Parisin 1999 Bombardier revealed it had takenunprecedented research into operator needsfor a jet of this size and when the aircraftfirst flew in 2001 it showed operating costsof $770 per hour and the ability forrelatively short field performance.

The Continental was renamed theChallenger 300 at NBAA 2002 andreceived certification in 2003.

Bombardier has delivered more than100 aircraft since.

Typical cabin arrangement is for eight,with a two seat lounge opposite twofacing seats, with club seating for fourbehind them, or double club seating.

The Challenger 300 Features a forwardwardrobe, galley and optional lavatory. Ahigh-density interior for 15 passengers isalso available.

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CESSNA CITATION X

THECitation X (Roman numeral for 10rather than the letter) is the fastest

civil aircraft flying today, a mantle it acquiredonce Concorde suspended operations.

Citation X is aerodynamically advanced andas a result, even at high-cruise power settings,its fuel consumption is comparable to other,much slower aircraft in its weight class. TheCessna design team were tasked with creatingan aircraft that would beat all others on keymissions such as east to west coast USA ortransatlantic. Brokers say that it can shaveanything from 35 minutes to an hour offthese journeys compared to others in this class

A key technical accomplishment is the70 knot (130 km/h) buffet margin (thedifference in speed between the stall buffetand the high-speed buffet). Many transonicairplanes at high altitudes have the stallbuffet speed only five knots (9 km/h) belowthe high-speed buffet. The Citation X's wide

Length 72' 3.6" 22mWingspan 63' 7" 19.4mHeight 19’ 5.8mCabin Length 23’ 11” 7.29mCabin Width 5' 6" 1.70mCabin Height 5' 7" 1.70mMax Range (6) 3,070nm 5,689kmMax Seating 2 + 11Typical Seating 2 + 8Powerplant 2x Rolls-Royce AE3007 C1 6,764lb/30.09kN eachAvionics Honeywell Primus 2000 Max Cruise Speed M0.92 525KTAS/972km/hMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb 3,650fpm 1,113mpmTake off Distance 5,140ft 1,567mLanding Distance 3,400ft 1,036mMTOW 36,100lbs 16,510kgMax Landing Weight 31,800lbs 16,375kgUseful load 14,300lb 6,486kgPayload with full fuel 1,362lbs 617kgPrice $20.06m €15.65m

SPECIFICATION

The sleek shape ofthe Citation Xhints at its nearsupersonicperformance. Thewings are swept to37 degrees andthe twin Rolls-Royce engines aremounted high onthe sides of therear fuselage.There is a highlyswept T-tail,differentiating thisfrom the Sovereignor XL Citations.There are sevencabin windows oneither side.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE

HERITAGECessna announced that it was developingthe Citation 750, named the Citation X inOctober 1990 at that year's NBAAconference. The prototype was publiclyrolled out in September 1993 and flew forthe first time on December 21 that year.Certification was granted on June 3 1996,with the first customer delivery (to golferArnold Palmer) a month later.A Citation X was the 2500th Citation to bedelivered, handed over on September 10 1997.The USA's National Aeronautics Associationawarded its prestigious Collier Trophy to theCitation X design team in February 1997.

margin allows for steep turns at highaltitudes, which can be useful in emergencymaneuvering. The wide margin also meansthat the speed does not have to bemaintained at a precise value for safeoperation of the airplane.

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DASSAULT FALCON 50EX

THEPower of Three could have beenwritten for Dassault and its Falcon

50EX aircraft. It’s trijet engines make itstand out on the ramp – and inperformance terms.

The aircraft was originally designed (asthe Falcon 50) by the French manufacturerto provide a transatlantic European optionin the high end of the business jet marketbut is now proving to be successful fortranscontinental US missions too with itscapability of flying eight executives3,075nm at Mach 0.85 nonstop.

The aircraft has three fuel efficientTFE731-40 turbofans, providing 400nm(740km) greater range (at Mach 0.80) thanthe original Falcon 50. Added to that is theEFIS flight deck based on the Falcon 2000'swith Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4 avionics.

It has good short field performancerequiring just 4,890ft (1,490m) at maximumgross take off weight.

HERITAGE

The threeengines arethe mostobvious way ofspotting theFalcon. Looktoo for the lowswept andtapered wing.There areseven windowson each sideand a tallswept tailfinwith a midmountedtailplane.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE Length 60' 9” 18.52m

Wingspan 61’ 10” 18.86mHeight 22’ 11” 6.98mCabin Length 23’ 6” 7.16mCabin Width 6’ 1” 1.86mCabin Height 5’ 11” 1.80mCabin Volume 635 cu.ft 17.98m3Max Range (8) 3,075nm 5,692kmMax Seating 2 + 19Typical Seating 2 + 9Powerplant 3x Honeywell TFE731-40 3,700lbs/16.46kN eachMax Cruise Speed 548ktas 1,015km/hMax Ceiling 49,000ft 14,936mRate of Climb 2,053fpm 626mpmTake off Distance 4,890ft 1,490mLanding Distance 2,920ft 890mMTOW 39,700lbs 18,008kgMax Landing Weight 35,715lbs 16,200kgUseful load 17,900lbs 8,119kgPayload with full fuel 2,380lbs 1,080kgPrice $21.15m €16.5m

SPECIFICATION

The first flight of the prototype Falcon 50occurred in November 1976, The aircraftwas designed using the Falcon 20 as thebase but adding a supercritical wing to theoriginal wing platform. The first preproduction aircraft flew on June13 1978. FAA certification followed in March1979 and in July that year customerdeliveries began. Falcon 20 componentsretained include the nose and fuselagecross section. The upgraded Falcon 50EX's maiden flightwas on April 10 1996 with Frenchcertification in November and FAA thefollowing month. First delivery was to aGerman customer in January 1997.

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GULFSTREAM G200

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THEGulfstream G200, like its smallersibling the G150, is built by Israel

Aircraft Industries (IAI) having been originallymarketed and supported by IAI subsidiaryGalaxy Aerospace until the division wasacquired by Gulfstream in May 2001.

Gulfstream introduced considerableimprovements and weight reductions to theGalaxy to further improve its reliability andperformance and today, the G200 has adispatch reliability rate in excess of 99 percent,a range of 3,400nm and has shed some 450lbs (205kg) from its first outing.

The G200 offers seating configurationsthat can accommodate up to 10 passengers.Gulfstream points to its outstandingperformance characteristics which includeexcellent climb, high-cruising altitude, high-speed, long-range and short-landingcapabilities. Powered by two Pratt &Whitney Canada PW 306A engines, theG200 can reach speeds up to Mach 0.85,altitudes up to 45,000ft and a range of3,400nm. With low ambient noise levels,100 percent fresh air and natural light fromgenerous windows, the cabin provides acomfortable workspace.

SPOTTER’S GUIDEAs a direct derivative of theAstra SP – which became theGulfstream G100 – there aremany comparisons with theoriginal Israeli aircraft. The Galaxy/G200 has a muchwider cabin and eight windows.It features Pratt & WhitneyCanada PW306 engines ratherthan the Honeywell powerplantson the smaller sister. It has a swept tailfin with amidmounted swept tailplane.

Length 62’ 3” 18.97mWingspan 58’ 1” 17.70mHeight 21’ 5” 6.53mCabin Length 24’ 5” 7.44mCabin Width 7’ 2” 2.18mCabin Height 6’ 3” 1.91mMax Range (4) 3,400nm (M 0.75) 6,301kmMax Seating 2 + 10Typical Seating 2 + 8Powperplant 2x P&WC 306A 6,040lb/26.9kN eachAvionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 4Max Cruise Speed M 0.80 459KTAS/850km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of Climb 3,700fpm 1,128mpmTake off Distance 6,083ft 1,854mLanding Distance 3,280ft 1,000mMTOW 35,450lbs 16,080kgMax Landing Weight 30,000lbs 13,608kgUseful load 15,500lbs 7,031kgPayload with full fuel 650lbs 295kgPrice $21.646m €16.89m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEThe G200 has an extensive internationalheritage. Work on the project began as the IAI-1126 Galaxy (initially called the AstraGalaxy ) began in the early 1990s and it wasformally launched in September 1993. A co-production arrangement was madebetween Galaxy and Yakovlev that would haveseen Yakovlev in Russia responsible for thedesign and manufacture of the fuselage, whileIAI would be the main contractor responsible forfinal assembly, integration and marketing. This was terminated in September 2005.Subsequently SOGERMA of France wasselected to manufacture production Galaxyfuselages and tails. The Galaxy was first expected to fly in 1996but this was delayed until December 25 1997.A second prototype flew in May 1998 while thefirst production aircraft first flew in Octoberthat year. US FAA and Israeli certification wereissued in December 1998. The first customeraircraft was delivered to TTI Industries inJanuary 2000. Gulfstream acquired Galaxy in2001 and redesignated the aircraft. On Aug.30, 2004 , the 100th green G200 was rolled outand entered service four months later. The European Aviation Safety Agencyvalidated the G200 FAA type certificate inSeptember 2004.

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HAWKER 4000

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NEW

GOOD things come to those whowait – The Hawker 4000

(formerly Hawker Horizon) is five yearsbehind schedule but Raytheon is nowpositioned to deliver the newly certifiedaircraft.

Like the smaller, Premier IA, the 4000features an all composite fuselagemanufactured using the automated fibreplacement technology which saves weightand increases cabin volume. The stand-upcabin with eight passenger seats has a flatfloor and plenty of space.

A number of risk partners have beeninvolved in the project - Power is from twoPratt & Whitney Canada PW308A turbofans,avionics integrator Honeywell supplies thePrimus Epic avionics suite with five flatpanel colour LCDs and the distinctive newmetal construction supercritical wing isbuilt by Fuji Heavy Industries of Japan.

A number of new technologies havebeen introduced and although it is acomposite fuselage, in long-range cruisethe sound levels are only 69.4dB, it is fuelefficient and it is quick.

Length 69’ 2” 21.08mWingspan 61’ 9” 18.82mHeight 19’ 7” 5.97mCabin Length 25’ 7.62mCabin Width 6’ 6” 1.97mCabin Height 6’ 1.83mMax Range (4) 3,341nm 6,188kmMax Seating 2 + 14Typical Seating 2 + 8Powerplant 2x P&WC PW308A 6,900lb/30.69kN eachAvionics Honeywell Primus EPICMax Cruise Speed 470ktas 870km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of Climb Not givenTake off Distance 4,509ft 1,374mLanding Distance 2,916ft 889mMTOW 37,500lbs 17,010kgMax Landing Weight 33,500lbs 15,195kgUseful load 15,225lbs 6,906kgPayload with full fuel 625lbs 283kgPrice $19.55m €15.25m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEThe Hawker 4000 waslaunched as the HawkerHorizon just before NBAA inNovember 1996. Theaircraft was developed as areplacement for theHawker 1000. The Horizonwas due to make its firstflight in late 1999, followedby certification and firstdeliveries in early 2001.Unfortunately the projectwith its technologicallyadvanced compositefuselage and super criticalwings hit delays with beingcertified to FAA FAR Part25 requirements. It firstflew in August 2001 andproduction began in 2004.The model receivedprovisional certification onDecember 23, 2004 -however Raytheon opted tomake more enhancementsand a final type certificatewas not due to be issueduntil late 2006.

HAWKER HORIZON SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The large cabin stands out above the low 30 degree swept wing. Seven windows on each sideand swept T-tail with swept tailplane. The PW308A engines are mounted on the sides of therear fuselage.

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Honeywell forecasts delivery of more than 1,300 largebusiness jets over the next ten years with deliveries expectedto peak in 2007 at just over 100 aircraft, then decline slightlyto a stable level of around 95 aircraft per year until steppingup again in 2012 and beyond. OEMs are working at upgradingor downsizing to meet the range and size requirements to suitthe fractional operators.

■ Dassault's Falcon 2000 is fostering two derivatives the2000EX and the 2000DX giving optimum short rangetrips with large cabin comfort.Artist Tim Hall.© Flight International – for more information oncutaways see www.flightglobal.com/cutaways

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BOMBARDIER CHALLENGER 605

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BOMBARDIERlistened to its

customers with the redesign of the best-selling large business jet which hasbecome the Challenger 605.

A 14% increase in window size overthe original 604 has given more than30% increase in cabin light and a betterline of sight for passengers.

The 605 has altogether a muchlighter and improved feel with changesto the cabin electronic system, to thegalley and to the lavatory.

First customer delivery is due in thethird quarter of 2007.

The new Challenger was launched inNovember 2005 with first flight inJanuary 2006.

The aircraft’s capacity for three crewand 12 passengers makes it a promisingoption for the corporate market.

The 605 is fitted with the RockwellCollins Pro Line 21 avionics.

The Canadian manufacturerdelivered the last 604 with thePrecisionPlus upgrade of its Pro Line 4avionic suite in mid 2006.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

Although only two inches (5cm) bigger than the 604 windows, the Challenger 605 windows lookmuch larger. A good identifier for the Challengers is the arced mounting for the engines. The lowswept wing with winglets give this aircraft a fine look. The new Challenger tailcone has an angularfinish, not flush like that of the 604.

A successor to the Challenger 604 – which itselfis part of the Challenger 600 series with firstflight in November 1978. More than 700 aircraftof the series have been manufactured since.Continual improvements with the 601-1A, 601-3A, 601-3R through to the 604 haveseen range and payload growth.

HERITAGE

Length 68' 5" 20.85mWingspan 64' 4" 19.61mHeight 20' 8" 6.30mCabin Length 28' 5" 8.66mCabin Width 8' 2" 2.49mCabin Height 6' 1" 1.85mMax Range (5) 4,045nm 7,491kmMax Seating 3 + 12Typical Seating 3 + 9Avionics Rockwell Collins Pro Line 21Powerplant 2x GE CF34-3B 8,729lb / 38.84 kNMax Cruise Speed M 0.82 470 KTAS / 870 km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 1,681fpm 512mpmTake off Distance 5,480ft 1,780mLanding Distance 2,777ft 846mMTOW 48,200lb 21,863kgMax Landing Weight 38,000lb 17,237kgUseful load 21,215lb 9,623kgPayload with full fuel 4,915lb 2,229kgPrice $26.7m €20.83m

SPECIFICATION

IN DE

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DASSAULT FALCON 2000DXIN

DEVELO

PMEN

T

DASSAULT haslistened to

its customers who want to operateshorter range trips but want thecomfort and performance of alarge-cabin aircraft.

The company has come up withthe Falcon 2000DX which is basedon the design of the 2000EX, butthe range has been reduced by 550nautical miles to 3,250nm (6,010km)– still some 250nm (460km) morethan the original Falcon 2000which it will replace.

Among its capabilities, the2000DX will be able to climb directlyto 41,000ft in 17 minutes. It willalso feature an EASy cockpit.

HERITAGEThe Dassault Falcon 2000DX is a direct replacement for the Falcon 2000 and a shorter rangeversion of the 2000 EX, achieved by taking 2,000lb (900kg) of fuel capacity out of the2000EX. First flight is planned for June 2007 and certification and first deliveries at the endof the year The Falcon 2000 was announced at the Paris Air Show of 1989 (as Falcon X) andfirst flew in March 1993 with first delivery in February 2005.

Length 66’ 4” 20.21mWingspan 63’ 5” 19.33mHeight 23’ 2” 7.06mCabin Length 26’ 2” 7.98mCabin Width 7’ 8” 2.34mCabin Height 6’ 2” 1.88mCabin Volume 1,024 cu.ft 28.99m3Max Range (6) 3,250nm 6,019kmMax Seating 2 + 19Typical Seating 2 + 18Powerplant 2x P&W PW308C 7,000lb / xkN eachMax Cruise Speed 476ktas 882km/hMax Ceiling 47,000ft 14,326mRate of Climb 2,412fpm 735mpmTake off Distance 4,800ft 1,463mLanding DistanceMTOW 41,000lbs 18,598kgMax Landing Weight 39,300lbs 17,826kgUseful load 18,010lbs 8,169kgPayload with full fuel 3,410lbs 1,547kgPrice $25.55m €19.93m

SPECIFICATION

As a straightderivative of the2000EX there isno externaldifference. Likethe 2000 itfeatures 10windows, a lowswept wing, atall swept tail finwith mid-mounted swepttailplane and aPratt andWhitney CanadaPW308C engineon either side ofthe rearfuselage.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE

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EUROPE’Sbusiness jetmanufacturing

industry is led by Dassault and theFrench company has made its nameworldwide with its Falcon 2000 family.

The cabin can accommodate up to19 passengers. The forward part of thepassenger cabin is arranged as a four-seat lounge.

The rear part of the cabin is setout with a two-seat sofa and fourseats. The cabin is 1.88m high, 2.34mwide and the cabin floor has a lengthof 7.98m.

The flight deck was initiallyequipped with the ProLine IV, but isnow supplied fitted with the HoneywellEASy Enhanced Avionics System, as onthe Falcon 900EX. EASy is based on thePrimus Epic system with improvedsafety and information managementfeatures (See Falcon 7X, p202).

The 3.79m-pressurised baggagecompartment is externally loaded,internally accessible and stows upto 725kg.

DASSAULT FALCON 2000EX SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The Falcon 2000 is a direct descendent of the Falcon 900 – but without the third engine. The P&WC308C engines are mounted on the sides of the rear fuselage. There are only nine windows compared tothe F900’s 12, but there is a similar tall swept tail fin and mid mounted swept tailplane.

HERITAGEThe Falcon 2000, on whoseplatform the 2000EX is based,was originally designed for U.S.transcontinental travel; easilyable to cover 3000 nm at Mach0.80 with NBAA IFR reserves.The popularity of the planeintroduced the need for a longer-range model, and ten years afterthe 2000’s launch, the 2000EXwas born. The EX offers a higherperforming engine, a 30%increase in fuel capacity and analmost 800 nm gain over itssibling. The programme waslaunched in October 1999 andhad first flight in October 2001followed by joint FAA and JAAcertification in March 2003. withfirst deliveries two months later.EASy flight deck was introducedduring 2004.

Length 66’ 4” 20.21mWingspan 63’ 5” 19.33mHeight 23’ 2” 7.06mCabin Length 26’ 2” 7.98mCabin Width 7’ 8” 2.34mCabin Height 6’ 2” 1.88mCabin Volume 1,024 cu.ft 28.99m3Max Range (6) 3,800nm 7,037kmMax Seating 2 + 19Typical Seating 2 + 8Powerplant 2x P&W PW308C 7,000lb / xkN eachMax Cruise Speed 480ktas 889km/hMax Ceiling 47,000ft 14,326mRate of Climb 1,952fpm 595mpmTake off Distance 5,374ft 1,638mLanding Distance 5,839ft 1,780mMTOW 42,200lbs 19,142kgMax Landing Weight 39,300lbs 17,826kgUseful load 18,110lbs 8,215kgPayload with full fuel 1,450lbs 658kgPrice $27.2m €21.22m

SPECIFICATION

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GULFSTREAM G350

THEGulfstream G350 is a sister to theG450, built on the same fuselage

but with very different missions in mind.The 350 was planned to take in the sectorthat the Gulfstream III had dominated withmid range but large cabin.

It was developed specifically forcustomers who require ample seating andcargo space, but who don’t need long- orultra-long-range capability. The aircraftfeatures a huge array of standard equipmentitems, including Gulfstream’s PlaneViewcockpit, based on Honeywell’s Primus Epic.

Also available as optional equipment arethe next-generation Visual Guidance System,Honeywell Head-Up Display (HUD) and theexclusive Gulfstream Enhanced VisionSystem. (EVS). Many customers have alsoopted for the Broadband Multi-Link (BBML)system, enabling high-speed Internet access.

Two Rolls-Royce Tay 611-8C enginesprovide the motion, enabling cruisealtitudes up to FL450 and speeds up toMach .88. The G350 typically seats 12 to 16passengers in a cabin pressurised to 6,000ftwhen flying at its maximum altitude.

HERITAGEThe G350 has found its way as replacementfor the Gulfstream III via a briefincarnation as the G300. However, incomparison with the G300, the G350features an additional range of 200nm(370km), a roomier cabin and cockpit andbaggage area, an advanced technologyflight deck and an upgraded cabinenvironmental control system. The G350 business jet was first announcedon February 23, 2004, at the AsianAerospace show in Singapore. On November 1, 2004, it was certified by theFAA and, on March 30, 2005, it receivedvalidation from the European AviationSafety Agency.It is similar in design to its sister ship, thelarge-cabin, long-range G450. While theG450 can fly 550nm (1,019km) farther thanthe G350, both aircraft feature the samespacious cabin. The first aircraft wasdelivered in July 2005.

Length 89’ 4” 27.23mWingspan 77’ 10” 23.72mHeight 25’ 2” 7.67mCabin Length 45’ 1” 13.74mCabin Width 7’ 4” 2.24mCabin Height 6’ 2” 1.88mMax Range (8) 3,800nm (M 0.80) 7,042kmMax Seating 3 + 19Typical Seating 3 + 12-16Powperplant 2x Rolls-Royce Tay Mk 611-8C 13,850lb/61.6kN eachAvionics Honeywell Primus EpicMax Cruise Speed M 0.80 459KTAS/850km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of Climb 3,960fpm 1,207mpmTake off Distance 5,050ft 1,539mLanding Distance 3,260ft 994mMTOW 70,900lbs 32,160kgMax Landing Weight 66,000lbs 29,937kgUseful load 28,200lbs 12,790kgPayload with full fuel 2,600lbs 1,179kgPrice $29.5m €23.02m

SPECIFICATION

The G350 and the G450 are virtually identicaland impossible to tell apart on the ramp.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

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These are specialist purpose built business jets rather thanconversions and among the most fiercely contested of all aviationmarket places. Honeywell believes that this segment, combinedwith ultra long range aircraft will lead to deliveries of more than1,600 aircraft in the next 10 years. There could be as many as170 aircraft during peak years. The Bombardier Global 5000 andthe Gulfstream 450 often go head-to-head but Dassault with itstwo Falcon 900 variants is challenging hard.

■ The Gulfstream 450 is a derivative of the classic GulfstreamGIV series and features all of the latest technologiesavailable in the industry. Artist Tim Hall.© Flight International – for more information on cutawayssee www.flightglobal.com/cutaways

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BOMBARDIER GLOBAL 5000

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THISintercontinental jet is designedto fill the niche in Bombardier’s

product line between the Challenger604/605 and the ultra-long-range GlobalExpress.

Powered by the same 14,750lbs(65.6kN) thrust Rolls-Royce DeutschlandBR710 engines as the Global Express theGlobal 5000 has a shortened fuselage(32” - 77cm) – but without short cuts on performance.

The aircraft’s zero flap takeoff capabilityallows operations at maximum take offweight at most airports worldwide. Thismeans the Global 5000 can land at smallerairfields closer to business areas.

A balanced field length of just 5,000ft(1,525m) is required for a maximum rangemission of 4,800nm (8,889km) at speedMach 0.85.

For shorter missions it goes evenfaster - Mach 0.89 (590mph; 950 km/h)and can fly at a maximum ceiling of51,000ft (15,545m).

The Global 5000 programme waslaunched in February 2002 and took itsmaiden flight in March 2003.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The outline of the Global Express is easily recognisable with effectively a CRJ fuselage mated to alow swept supercritical wing with winglets. It also features a swept T-tail with swept anhedraltailplane. The 10 windows differentiates the Global 5000 from the original Global Express (13) andthe Global XRS (15).

The first true derivative of the GlobalExpress which itself was the first clean-sheet designed ultra-long rangebusiness jet launched in 1993 with firstflight in 1996 certification by Canada inJuly 1998, FAA in November 1988 and JAAin May 1999. First customer delivery was July 23 1999.

HERITAGE

Transport Canada (TC) type certificationwas received in March 2004, European JointAviation Authorities (JAA) in July 2004 andUS Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) inSeptember 2004.

The aircraft entered service in April2005, with a Middle East operator as thelaunch customer.

The aircraft is equipped with aHoneywell Primus 2000XP avionics suitewith dual flight management systems, dualCategory II autopilot systems and anautomatic flight control system.

The long and wide cabin features theRockwell Collins Airshow 21 integratedcabin electronics system and theBombardier EVS as an option.

Length 96' 10" 29.5mWingspan 94' 28.6mHeight 25' 6" 7.7mCabin Length 42' 6" 12.94mCabin Width 8' 2" 2.49mCabin Height 6' 3" 1.91mCabin Volume 1,882 cu.ft 53.29m3Max Range (8) 4,800nm 8,889kmMax Seating 3 + 17Typical Seating 3 + 8Powerplant 2x Rolls Royce Deutschland BR710A2-20 14,750lbs/65.6kN eachAvionics Honeywell Primus 2000XPMax Cruise Speed M0.89 513ktas/950km/hMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb 1,869fpm 569mpmTake off Distance 5,000ft 1,524mLanding Distance 2,670ft 814mMTOW 87,700lbs 39,893kgMax Landing Weight 78,600lbs 35,652kgUseful load 36,870lbs 16,724kgPayload with full fuel 1,120lbs 508kgPrice $36.7m €28.63m

SPECIFICATION

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DASSAULT FALCON 900DX

Length 66’ 4” 20.21mWingspan 63’ 5” 19.33mHeight 24’ 9” 7.55mCabin Length 33’ 2” 10.11mCabin Width 7’ 8” 2.34mCabin Height 6’ 2” 1.88mCabin Volume 1,264 cu.ft 35.79m3Max Range (8) 4,100nm 7,593kmMax Seating 2 + 19 Typical Seating 2 + 12Powerplant 3x Honeywell TFE731-60 5,000lb / 22.24kN eachMax Cruise Speed 474ktas 878km/hMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb 2,055fpm 627mpmTake off Distance 4,890ft 1,490mLanding Distance 3,530ft 1,076mMTOW 46,700lbs 21,183kgMax Landing Weight 42,200lbs 19,142kgUseful load 22,430lbs 10,174kgPayload with full fuel 3,600lbs 1,633kgPrice $32.75m €25.55m

SPECIFICATION

The 900DXfeatures the sametri-engine designas the 50EX andthe 7X and hastwelve windowseach sidecompared to thefourteen of the7X. It has sweptwings withoutwinglets and themid-mounted tailis swept withanhedral. As aFalcon it is easilydistinguished, butmay be confusedwith the larger7X.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE

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THE900DX is a long range tri-jetfeaturing Dassault Falcon EASy

flight deck and is powered by HoneywellTFE731-60 turbofans producing 5,000lbs(22.24kN) each. It is of a similar overallconfiguration to the smaller Falcon 50, ituses the same wing, but also offers a widerand longer fuselage.

It can comfortably transport eightpassengers 4,100nm (7,593km) and caneasily fly from Paris to Chicago and doesn’tneed three miles of runway at the otherend.

At maximum take off weight of46,700lbs (21,183kg) it will clear the 50’(15m) perimeter fence in 4,890ft (1,490m).

This fast, long range, jet offers 1,264cubic feet (35.79m3) of cabin space, ampleroom for the typical eight passengerconfiguration whilst being able to cruise at51,000ft (15,545m) and a maximum of474ktas – this jet means business.

HERITAGEThe first 900 series Falcon was announcedin 1983 as a development of the Falcon 50.It first flew in 1984 and was certified inMarch 1986 and first delivery occurred inDecember that same year. It has replacedthe 900C and bridges the gap between the$25m 2000EX and the $35m 900EX. It flewfor the first time on 13 May 2005 afterhaving been announced at EBACE in 2004and certification was awarded in October2005.

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DASSAULT 900EX SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The 900EX features low swept and tapered wings with three Honeywell TFE731-60 turbofan engineseach providing 5,000lbs (22.24kN) of thrust, two mounted on the sides of the rear fuselage and one ontop of the fuselage at the base of the tail. There is a tall swept tailfin and a mid-mounted highly swepttailplane. There are 12 windows on either side of the aircraft.

WITH its classic trijet engine design,the Falcon 900EX can use

small airports at high altitudes, even on hotdays. It’s the most versatile aircraft and alsoone of the safest given, its ability to flyslower on approach than its twinjetcompetitors… and that can be after a4500nm (8,334km) nonstop flight.

The 900EX cabin length measures 33’ 2”(10.11m) from the cockpit divider tothe aft pressure bulkhead, devoting25’(7.62m) to passenger seating. It is abroad 7’ 8” (2.34m) wide and 6’ 2” (1.88m)

high so passengers can move about easily.Dassault has always been a leader in

cabin comfort and facilities. Computers, fax, telephone, SATCOM,

digital datalink, copiers, video displays andconference tables ensure productive flights– and as you would expect from a classicFrench design there is a galley fullyequipped for multiple meals.

The 900EX was the first to incorporatethe EASy flight deck born out of a militaryheritage that demands a highly intuitive andperformance enhancing flight environment.

Length 66’ 4” 20.21mWingspan 63’ 5” 19.33mHeight 24’ 9” 7.55mCabin Length 33’ 2” 10.11mCabin Width 7’ 8” 2.34mCabin Height 6’ 2” 1.88mCabin Volume 1,264 cu.ft 35.79m3Max Range (8) 4,500nm 8,334kmMax Seating 2 + 19Typical Seating 2+ 12Powerplant 3x Honeywell TFE731-60 5,000lb / 22.24kN eachMax Cruise Speed 474ktas 882km/hMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb 3,880fpm 1,182mpmTake off Distance 5,215ft 1,590mLanding Distance 3,522ft 1,074mMTOW 49,000lbs 22,226kgMax Landing Weight 44,500lbs 18,641kgUseful load 23,800lbs 10,796kgPayload with full fuel 2,800lbs 1,270kgPrice $36.15m €28.2m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEDassault announcedthe development of the900EX in October 1994and entered thedevelopment programwith risk sharingpartners, Alenia,Hellenic AircraftIndustries, Honeywell,Latecoere and SABCA,which provided 20% ofthe funding. The900EX completed itsfirst flight in June1995 FAA certificationwas granted in July1995 and the aircraftentered service inNovember 1996 withAnheuser-BuschCompanies Inc. Theaircraft is an upgradedversion of the Falcon900 which wasannounced at the ParisAirshow in June 1982.The 900 is a derivativeof the Falcon 50.

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GULFSTREAM G450

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Length 89’ 4” 27.23mWingspan 77’ 10” 23.7mHeight 25’ 2” 7.67mCabin Length 45’ 1” 13.74mCabin Width 7’ 4” 2.24mCabin Height 6’ 2” 1.88mMax Range (8) 4,350nm 8,061kmMax Seating 3 + 19Typical Seating 3 + 12-16Powerplant 2x Rolls-Royce Tay Mk 611-8C 13,850lb/61.6kN eachAvionics Honeywell Primus EpicMax Cruise Speed M 0.80 459ktas/850km/hMax Ceiling 45,000ft 13,716mRate of Climb 3,760fpm 1,146mpmTake off Distance 5,450ft 1,661mLanding Distance 3,260ft 994mMTOW 73,900lb 33,521kgMax Landing Weight 66,000lb 29,937kgUseful load? 6,000lb 2,722kgMax fuel Payload? 1,800lb 816kgPrice $34.17m €26.66m

SPECIFICATION

Gulfstream GIV/GIV-SP/G400, of which 500aircraft were built andsold between 1982 and2002, formed the basisfor the G450. The GIVentered service inJune,1987 and inDecember 2002, the lastGIV was “rolled out”and the manufacturingline was transitioned toproduce the GulfstreamG300 and G400.The first G450 testaircraft completed itsfirst flight on April 30th2003, FAA typecertification wasawarded in August 2004and in November 2004the European AviationSafety Agency (EASA)validated the FAAcertification.Gulfstream are proud ofthe commonality of theG450 with the G350 andto a degree the G500 andG550 which allowssimple pilot typeconversions andimpressive savings forspares.

HERITAGE

THEG450 was unveiled at NBAA in FloridaOctober 2003 as a replacement to the

successful G400 and classic GIV series. Itoutperforms the G400 with a 250nm (463km)additional range capability and improved hot-day and high-elevation takeoff performance.There is an extra 12” (30cm) in the fuselage andchanges in the interior arrangement. Inside thecockpit is the fully integrated flight deckutilising Gulfstream’s PlaneView.

The cabin can seat up to 19 passengers.It can be customised to the operator’srequirements, for example with an aftstateroom, galleys with countertop cooking,exercise bicycles rated to handle 2G bankangles, surround sound entertainmentsystems, multiple flat panel monitors,satellite telephone and DIRECTV and BroadBand Multi-Link (BBML) internet access.

The cabin has three separately controlledtemperature zones with 100% fresh air air-conditioning and 12 heated oval widows.

During 2006 Gulfstream has been usingthe aircraft to prove the latest technologies.The company is flight testing its secondgeneration of enhanced vision system (EVS),

with certification on the G450 and G550scheduled for the second quarter of 2007. TheEVSII system will be fitted to new productionaircraft from late 2007 or early 2008.

The aircraft features an improved Rolls-Royce Tay engine, designated the Tay 611-8C,which produces 13,850lbs (61.6kN) of thrustwith a Full Authority Digital Engine Control(FADEC), improved larger diameter fan, modifiedhigh pressure turbine and new bypass/coremixer. These improvements have resulted inreduced fuel burn, increased operating margins,increased thrust for improved takeoff and climbperformance, and extension of maintenanceintervals to 6,000 hours midlife and 12,000hours for full overhaul.

GULFSTREAM G450 SPOTTER’S GUIDE

From the exterior, the discerning observer of the G450 will note the repositioning of the mainentrance door and the slightly longer fuselage than that of the GIV/G400. There are 12 distinctiveoval windows, a low swept wing with winglets, the Tay engines are mounted on the sides of therear fuselage behind which is the swept ‘T’ tail with swept tailplane.

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Another of the categories being fuelled by new entrants andupgrades of established players. This is where the big boys of thebusiness aircraft world battle it out. It is where miles count.Bombardier’s flagship Global Express XRS, the two Gulfstreamsthe G500 and the G550 have been fighting over range and comfortsupremacy and soon the Dassault 7X with all of its new featureswill be joining the fray.

■ The all-new fly-by-wire Dassault 7X is at the latter stages ofthe certification process and with its tri-jet power, its Frenchflair and US marketing skills will soon be bringing an aircraftthat was wholly designed on a virtual platform into the realityof a market placeArtist Tim Hall.© Flight International – for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

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BOMBARDIER GLOBAL EXPRESS XRS

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THISis the flagship of the Bombardierfleet with ultra long range

capabilities and high performance.It entered service in November 2005 and

showed significant improvements over itslegacy predecessor the Global Express withincreased range to 6,150nm (11,400km) atM0.85– the original target for the GlobalExpress.

The aircraft features an additional1,486lb (674kg)-capacity forward fuel tankin the wing/body fairing. Pressurisation isincreased to reduce cabin altitude to 4,500ft(1,372m) up to 45,000ft (13,716m).

Other cabin improvements include arelocated crew rest area, two additionalwindows, LED lighting and a larger baggagearea. The Global XRS will have Bombardier’sEVS as standard, comprising the CMCElectronics infrared sensor and ThalesAvionics HUD.

Developments in the cabin are alsomaking an impact. Mid-2006 Bombardierbegan offering as standard the RockwellCollins Airshow 21 cabin electronic system.

With a dual-redundant Ethernetbackbone, the Airshow 21 suite controls the

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

With 15 windows – Two more than the original Global Express – on each side of the cabin it clearlydifferentiates the XRS from the Global 5000 (with 10) and the Global Express (13). The outline of theGlobal Express is familiar with effectively a CRJ fuselage mated to a low swept supercritical wingwith winglets. It also features a swept T-tail with swept anhedral tailplane.

A derivative of the Global Express which itselfwas the first clean-sheet designed ultra-longrange business jet launched in 1993 with firstflight in 1996 certification by Canada in July1998, FAA in November 1988 and JAA in May1999. First customer delivery was July 231999 and the final delivery in September 2005after 148 aircraft had been delivered.

HERITAGE

Length 99’ 5” 30.3mWingspan 94’ 28.6mHeight 25’ 6” 7.7mCabin Length 48’ 4” 14.70mCabin Width 8’ 2” 2.49mCabin Height 6’ 3” 1.91mCabin Volume 2,140 cu.ft 60.6m3Max Range (8) 6,150nm 11,390kmMax Seating 4 + 19Typical Seating 4 + 8Powerplant 2x RR BR710A2-20 14,750lbs / 65.6 kNAvionics Honeywell Primus 2000XPMax Cruise Speed 513ktas 950 km/hMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb 1,433fpm 436mpmTake off Distance 6,190ft 1,887mLanding Distance 2,670ft 814mMTOW 98,000lbs 44,452kgMax Landing Weight 78,600lbs 35,652kgUseful load 46,800lbs 21,228kgPayload with full fuel 1,825lbs 827kgPrice $47.7m €37.21m

SPECIFICATION

cabin environment; provides communicationsand entertainment; manages lighting; wasteand water systems; and enables centralisedmaintenance.

Two Inmarsat Aero H+ channels and anIridium based channel means high-speeddata satellite communications is standardfor both the cockpit and the passengers.

Plug and play servers with a built-inaircraft firewall allows the Rockwell CollinseXchange system – purpose built forbusiness jets – provide internet and emailcoverage as well as live TV images throughthe Tailwind 500 system.

Other improvements include a fasterrefueling system and improved zero-flapstake off capability for hot and high airports.

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DASSAULT FALCON 7X

THE7X is the newest tri-jet member tojoin the Dassault Falcon family. It

features Fly-By-Wire controls and wasdesigned in a completely virtualenvironment. Originally the specificationscalled for a 5,700nm (10,556km) range.However, following customer feedbackDassault installed a new fuel tank forwardof the wing centre section, increasing fuelcapacity by 1,760lbs (800kg) and fitted dragreducing winglets.

These improvements combined to extendthe range to 5,950nm (11,000km) with eightpassengers and three crew.

The 7X incorporates the Falcon EASyavionics suite, which was developed incollaboration with Honeywell and is basedon Honeywell’s Primus Epic integratedsystem. The system is made up of four14.1 inch flat-panels in a T configuration,designed with the flight crew in mind.

Three 6,400lb (28.46kN) Pratt & WhitneyPW307A engines power this aircraft and intesting it has so far achieved speeds ofM0.92 (526ktas/975km/h).

It can cruise at 51,000ft (15,545m)above the congestion and lift a useful loadof 34,928lbs (15,843kg).

DASSAULT 7X SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The 7X has three engines; two are pod mounted at the rear and then third is at the back of the fuselagewith its air intake in front of the tail and on top of the fuselage. The wings are swept with winglets,the horizontal stabilisers are swept and mid-mounted.

HERITAGEThe 7X was announced at theParis Air Show in June 2001under the designation of FNXand made its public debut inJune 2005, again at the ParisAir Show. It flew for the firsttime on 5 May 2005. The 7Xfeatures full FBW (Fly-By-Wire) control and wascompletely designed in avirtual environment, theresult is that a proof ofconcept prototype was neverneeded. The first 7X to rolloff the production line will beidentical to the tenth,thirtieth or fiftieth. Thedesign system allowed everyperson involved to‘walkround’ the 7X in avirtual environment beforethe first metal was even cut.Certification is expected inearly 2007 and the firstdeliveries are set to begin inApril 2007.

Length 76’ 1” 23.19mWingspan 86’ 26.21mHeight 25’ 8” 7.863mCabin Length 39’ 1” 11.91mCabin Width 7’ 8” 2.34mCabin Height 6’ 2” 1.88mCabin Volume 1,552 cu.ft 44m3

Max Range (8) 5,950nm 11,019kmMax Seating 3 + 19Typical Seating 3 + 12Powerplant 3x P&WC PW307A 6,400lb / 28.46kN eachAvionics Falcon EASyMax Cruise Speed TBCMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb TBCTake off Distance* 5,505ft 1,585mLanding Distance** 2,262ft 716mMTOW 69,000lbs 31,299kgMax Landing Weight 62,400lbs 28,304kgUseful load 34,928lbs 15,843kgPayload with full fuel 1,900lbs 1,355kgPrice $39.2m €30.58m* 63,600lbs take off weight**37,100lbs landing weight

SPECIFICATION

IN DE

VELOPM

ENT

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GULFSTREAM G500

BUILT for those who want to go far… but not that far. The

Gulfstream G500 is a derivative of theGulfstream G550 model with a range ofoptions to allow buyers fit the aircraft tosuit their needs

It entered service in 2004 and has beencertified for worldwide operations, theaircraft features a normal cruising speed ofMach .80 and a range of 5,800nm (10,742km)with a typical load of eight passengers. It flieshigh above commercial air traffic and adverseweather, permitting more direct routing by airtraffic control and shorter en route times. TheG500 operates efficiently on short-range,high-speed routes as well, flying up to5,100nm (9,445km) at Mach .85.

G500 also provides an exceptional,advanced safety feature, the AutomaticEmergency Descent Mode, built into theFlight Management System. In the unlikely

event of a rapid cabin depressurization at40,000 feet or above, coupled with crewincapacitation, the G500 will automaticallyturn and descend to a safe altitude of15,000 feet and a speed of 250 knots. Thisallows the flight crew to regainconsciousness and resume control of theaircraft with plenty of altitude to spare.

The G500's required take off distance isonly 5,150ft. The G500 has the samePlaneView advanced flightdeck as the G550and the long-range, $34 million G450.Depending on the configuration, the G500can accommodate 14 to 18 passengers.

The G500 is a shorter range version of theG550, and has the same exterior appearance,(see Gulfstream G550).

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

Length 96’ 5” 29.39mWingspan 93’ 6” 28.50mHeight 25’ 10” 7.87mCabin Length 50’ 1” 15.27mCabin Width 7’ 4” 2.24mCabin Height 6’ 2” 1.88mCabin Volume 1,670 cu.ft 47.3m3Max Range (8) 5,800nm 10,742kmMax Seating 4 + 19Typical Seating 4 + 14-18Avionics Honeywell Primus EpicPowerplant 2x Rolls-Royce BR710 C4-11 15,385lb/68.4kN eachMax Cruise Speed 487ktas 901km/hMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb 3,950fpm 1,204mpmTake off Distance 5,150ft 1,570mLanding Distance 2,770ft 844mMTOW 85,100lbs 38,601kgMax Landing Weight 75,300lbs 34,156kgUseful load 37,100lbs 16,828kgPayload with full fuel 2,300lbs 1,043kgPrice $38.76m €30.24m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEBoth the Gulfstream G500 and G550aircraft are products from the G-V – thefirst ultra long range aircraft to fly. Sinceannouncing the concept at NBAA in 1992there was a battle between Gulfstreamwith the GV and Bombardier with theGlobal Express to be first to market. Basedon a lengthened and re-engineered G-IVfuselage but with a more efficient wing,Gulfstream won the race and flew on 28November 1995.The G500 is a reducedrange version of the G550.

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GULFSTREAM G550

JUSTone week after entering servicein September 2003, the G550

completed a 20,000-mile flight around theworld – setting four city-pair speed recordsin the process. And that tradition hascontinued with the aircraft clocking uprecords between cities and continentsacross the globe.

The aircraft was the 2004 winner of thefamous Collier trophy and recognized for itsability to outreach any other business-jetaircraft in its class.

The G550 can accommodate up to 19passengers, fly at a maximum speed ofMach 0.885 and cruise at a maximumaltitude of 51,000ft (15,545m).

With a 100 percent fresh air system,maximum cabin altitude of 6,000ft and 14signature oval windows that allow for amplenatural lighting, the G550 cabin maximizespassenger comfort while decreasing theeffects of travel fatigue and jet lag.

The Gulfstream G550 also features thePlaneView cockpit and the GulfstreamEnhanced Vision System (EVS) as standard.

(This system enables flight crews to seerunway markings, taxiways, adjacent roadsand surrounding areas in conditions oflimited visibility. The system also helpscrews avoid runway incursion and hazardsthat would otherwise not be easily visible.)

Powered by two Rolls-Royce BR710engines, each producing more than15,000lbs (66kN) of thrust, the G550 can flyeight passengers and four crewmembers6,750nm (12,501km) – it will fly non-stopfrom New York to Tokyo in 14 and one-halfhours at altitudes up to 51,000ft (15,545m),high above commercial air traffic, weatherand adverse winds and permitting evenmore direct air traffic routing.

Length 96’ 5” 29.39mWingspan 93’ 6” 28.50mHeight 25’ 10” 7.87mCabin Length 50’ 1” 15.27mCabin Width 7’ 4” 2.24mCabin Height 6’ 2” 1.88mMax Range (8) 6,750nm (M0.80) 12,501kmMax Seating 4 + 19Typical Seating 4 + 14-18Powerplant 2x Rolls-Royce BR710 C4-11 15,385lb/68.4kN eachAvionics Honeywell Primus EpicMax Cruise Speed M 0.87 498KTAS/922km/hMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb 3,650fpm 1,113mpmTake off Distance 5,910ft 1,801mLanding Distance 2,770ft 844mMTOW 91,000lbs 41,277kgMax Landing Weight 75,300lbs 34,156kgUseful load 42,700lbs 19,369kgPayload with full fuel 1,800lbs 816kgPrice $46.665m €36.41m

SPECIFICATION

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

This aircraft differs externally from the legacy Gulfstream V by a seventh passenger window on theleft side of the aircraft (as opposed to six on the left and either six or seven on the right). Itfeatures a low swept wing with winglets, twin Rolls-Royce Deutschland BR710 turbofan enginesmounted on the fuselage ahead of a swept T-tail and swept tailplane.

HERITAGEThe firstproductionGulfstreamG550 wasoriginallyknown as theSP (SpecialPerformance)version of theGulfstream GVofferingenhancedperformanceand greatercabin spacethan the GV-SP. It rolledout in June,2002 andreceived FAAcertification onAugust 14 2003.

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These aircraft tend to be omitted from forecasts providedby Honeywell, Bombardier and Embraer but almostcertainly there is greater growth than anyone imagined.This is reflected by the interest being taken by airtransport giants Boeing and Airbus. With Embraer joiningBombardier in promoting new aircraft based on theirregional passenger jets, deliveries of aircraft in this classare projected to total around 200 through 2016 with valueof around $12 billion. The market for supersonic businessjets is still untested but there are other manufacturersbeyond Aerion working on taking this potential further.

■ The Dornier 328Jet has been known as the Fairchild Dornier Envoyand the Avcraft 328Jet under its different ownership in the pastsix years. With more than 60 aircraft parked in the desert, thelatest owners are keen to get the aircraft back in the air.Artists: Tim Hall, Giuseppe Picarella, and Tim Brown© Flight International – for more information on cutaways seewww.flightglobal.com/cutaways

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AIRBUS A318 ELITE

THIS is the newest of the AirbusCorporate Jetliner (ACJ) family,

based on the A318 regional jet. It has the samewide cabin as the rest of the Airbus A320range, and is positioned as an entry-levelairliner aiming at the market for flights of up to4,000nm range.

The A318 entered service in July 2003.Airbus is in partnership with Lufthansa Technikto offer a choice of two cabin layouts seatingup to 14 and 18 passengers, respectively, withseats and settees clustered in several loungeareas throughout the cabin.

Both configurations are able to fly non-stopfrom London to New York, offering trueintercontinental capability.

As the youngest, as well as the smallest,member of the Airbus A320 Family, the A318features several innovations which are beingprogressively introduced in the rest of the

range. These include advanced manufacturingtechniques such as laser-beam welding, liquid-crystal displays in the cockpit and an improvedcabin-management system for lighting, in-flight entertainment and other services.

Like the rest of the Airbus ACJ Family, theA318 offers features that are currentlyunavailable on other business jets. Theseinclude public-transport certification,centralised maintenance, sidestick controllers,fly-by-wire controls, carbon brakes, category 3Bautoland and a choice of engines and auxiliarypower units.

With a shorter fuselage but the same wingas the other ACJs, the Elite has excellent short-field take-off and landing performance. TheA318 Elite is offered with a steep approachcapability of 5.5 degrees – making it suitablefor operation from airports with noise orobstacle limitations.

Length 103’ 2” 31.45mWingspan 111’ 10” 34.10mHeight 41’ 2” 12.56mCabin Length 70’ 2” 21.38mCabin Width 12' 3.71mCabin Height 7' 4" 2.24mMax Range (8) 4,100nm 7,600kmMax Seating 2 + 18Typical Seating 2 + 14Powperplant 2x CFM56-5B9/P 23,300lb/103.6kN

2x PW6124A 23,800lb/105.9kNMax Cruise Speed 473ktas 876km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,500mRate of ClimbTake off Distance 4,429ft 1,350mLanding Distance 4,396ft 1,340mMTOW 142,200lbs 64,500kgMax Landing Weight 126,760lbs 57,500kgUseful load 65,312lbs 29,625kgPayload with Full Fuel 26,988lbs 12,242kgPrice $45 €35.11m

SPECIFICATION

AIRBUS ELITE SPOTTER’S GUIDE

Compared with the A319, the A318 is four and a half frames shorter. Other changes include a tailwhich is slightly taller than the A319, A320, and A321 variants. There is a reduced size cargo door.The engines are either CFM56-5B9/P or PW6124. Only one emergency exit above wing.

HERITAGEThe A318 is thesmallest of theA320 family witha reduced cabinlength. Theconcept wasannounced at theFarnboroughAirshow in 1998with Pratt &Whitney PW6124engines selected.The first flightwas in January2002. Sevenmonths later aversion withCFM56-5B9/Pengines wasflown. The Eliteversion waslaunched in 2005.

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AIRBUS CORPORATE JETLINER (ACJ)

THEAirbus Corporate Jetliner (ACJ) isbased on the A319 airliner and has

the widest and most spacious cabin of anysingle-aisle business jet.

The ACJ was launched at the ParisAirshow in June 1997 and made its maidenflight in November the following year. InNovember 1999 the first aircraft wasdelivered to a Kuwaiti customer.

The ACJ is certificated with up to sixadditional fuel tanks, an increased cruisealtitude of 41,000ft and airstairs.

Its fly-by-wire cockpit is identical to allof the other A320 Family aircraft – theA318, A319, A320 and A321. Only one pilottype rating is required to fly the ACJ andany member of the A320 family, while

transitioning to the A330, A340, and A380requires only minimal additional trainingthrough Airbus’ cross-crew qualificationconcept. This provides a pool of thousandsof pilots who are qualified on Airbus fly-by-wire aircraft around the world and ready tocommand the ACJ.

Pilots operate the aircraft though side-stick controllers, and the fly-by-wirecontrols allow unrestricted inputthroughout the flight envelope – protectingagainst overspeeding, stalling andwindshear, while keeping the ACJ wellwithin the structural limits. And with twiceas much flight deck volume as typically-sized business jets, the ACJ is designed formaximum pilot productivity.

Length 111’ 33.84mWingspan 111’10” 34.1mHeight 38’ 7” 11.76mCabin Length 78’ 23.78mCabin Width 12’ 2” 3.7mCabin Height 7’ 4” 2.24mMax Range (8) 6,000nm 11,100kmMax Seating 2 + 48Typical Seating 2 + 19Powperplant 2x CFM56-5B7/P 27,000lbs/120.1kN each

2x IAE V2527-A5 26,500lb/117.9kN eachMax Cruise Speed 472ktas 874km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,500mRate of ClimbTake off DistanceLanding DistanceMTOW 166,500lbs 76,500kgMax Landing Weight 137,800lbs 62,500kgUseful loadPayload with Full FuelPrice $55m €42.91m

SPECIFICATION

AIRBUS A319 ACJ SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The A319 is a minimum change, shortened derivative of the highly successful A320. The majordifference between the A320 and A319 is that the latter is shorter by seven fuselage frames, while inalmost all other respects the A319 and A320 are identical. With the exception of Easy Jet’s A319s,the A319 only has one emergency exit above the wing. Easy Jet A319s and all A320s have two.

HERITAGEThe ACJ’sparent – theA319 waslaunched at theParis Airshowin June 1993and flew for thefirst time onAugust 25 1995from Hamburgin Germany.European JAAcertificationand serviceentry, withSwissair, tookplace in April1996.

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AIRBUS A320 PRESTIGE

ASAirbus realised the success of its ACJprogramme based on the A319, it

identified demand for more corporateshuttle space and so developed a corporatejet within the frame of the A320.

Dubbed the Prestige – which is alsowhat Airbus calls it VVIP interior option forthe A319 ACJ – this aircraft is appropriate

for intercontinental shuttle flights with 30passengers travelling 4,100nm (7,600km) –the same mission that the A318 Elite doeswith eight.

The Prestige has a number of cabinoptions and the space for two additionalcentre tanks for the increased range (theA319 ACJ can take six).

Length 123’ 3” 37.57mWingspan 111’ 10” 34.10mHeight 38’ 7” 11.76mCabin Length 90’ 3” 27.50mCabin Width 12’ 1” 3.70mCabin Height 7' 4" 2.24mMax Range (30) 4,100nm 7,600kmMax Seating 2 + 50Typical Seating 2 + 19Powperplant 2 x CFM56-B4/P 27,000lbs/120.1kN

2 x V2527-A5 26,500lbs/117.9kNMax Cruise Speed 487ktas 903km/hMax Ceiling 39,000ft 11,900mRate of ClimbTake off DistanceLanding DistanceMTOW 169,800lbs 77,000kgMax Landing Weight 145,500lbs 66,000kgUseful loadPayload with full fuelPrice $65m €50.71m

SPECIFICATION

Two emergencyexits above thewing denotesthe A320 fromits smallersiblings.

SPOTTER’SGUIDE

HERITAGEThe A320 program was launched in March 1982, first flight occurred on February 221987, while certification was awarded on February 26 1988. Launch customers AirFrance and British Airways took delivery of their first A320s in March that year. The initial production version was the A320-100, which was built in only smallnumbers before being replaced by the definitive A320-200 (certificated in November1988) with an increased max take off weight, greater range and wingtip fences.

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BOEING BUSINESS JET (BBJ)

BOEING’SBBJ was created tomeet a need for a

business aircraft that has the subtlepresence of a traditional airliner on theramp but the space within for a custom-built interior literally fit for a king.

The BBJ is a high performance derivativeof the Boeing’s Next Generation 737-700.Using the 737-700 fuselage with thestrengthened wings and landing gear fromthe heavier and larger 737-800

Other changes from the airliner-configured 737 include blended winglets

specially designed by Airline Partners ofSeattle for additional fuel economy (5-7%improvement); self-contained airstairs forlanding at airports with limited groundsupport. Additional fuel tanks boost the BBJ’srange to 6,200m (11,482km), giving itintercontinental capability. It also has ETOPS-180 certification. Another great salesadvantage to the BBJ is its lineage. The 737is the most successful airliner in the worldtoday, with more than 3,500 aircraft flying.Boeing officials say a 737 lands and takes offsomewhere in the world every 4.6 seconds.

Length 110’ 4” 33.6mWingspan 117’ 5” 35.8mHeight 41’ 2” 12.5mCabin Length 79’ 2” 24.13mCabin Width 11’ 7” 3.53mCabin Height 7’ 1” 2.16mMax Range (50) 6,000nm 11,482kmMax Seating 10 + 149Typical Seating 3 + 19Powerplant 2x CFM56-7 27,300lbs/91.19kN eachMax Cruise Speed 469ktas 868km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 3,300fpm 1005 mpmTake off Distance 6,085ft* 1855mLanding Distance 2,905ft 885mMTOW 171,000lbs 77,565kgMax Landing Weight 134,000lbs 60,780kgUseful load 15,724lbs 34,665kgPayload with full fuel 11,907lbs 26,250kgPrice (green) $48m €37.55m* based on FAR 25 with one engine

SPECIFICATIONHERITAGEThe first BBJ rolled outfrom Boeing’s Renton,Washington plant onJuly 26 1998 andreceived FAA and JAAcertification on October29 1998. The conceptwas a joint idea fromBoeing and enginemaker GE – in actualfact it was back in1995 when GE’s thenCEO Jack Welchrecognised the need formore space in hiscorporate jet that ledhim to call his buddy,Boeing chairman andCEO Phil Condit to seeif it was possible … therest as they say ishistory.

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The very early BBJs were without the winglets – but the very beauty of the aircraft is that there islittle to tell it apart from other 737s at the airport other than tasteful paint jobs.

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BOEING BBJ 2

THEBoeing Business Jet 2, is an evolutionof the BBJ family, providing a 25%

increase in cabin volume and 100% increase incargo volume compared to the BBJ. Theaircraft's long range capability allows directnon-stop flight from New York to London,Moscow or Dubai, or from London to Rio deJaneiro, Johannesburg, Singapore or Tokyo

The aircraft is in service withgovernment and corporate customersincluding the Abu Dhabi Amiri Flight andthe government of Belarus.

The cabin has more than a thousandsquare feet of floor area (over 93m2) and canseat up to 78 passengers in addition to anexecutive lounge and private suite. Germany’sLufthansa Tecknik has a wealth of experiencein completions of the BBJ types, havingincorporated an executive office, conferencerooms, private offices and bedrooms intotheir BBJ designs. In addition to staff orfamily sleeping or seating areas, variations

can also be created using for example a livingroom, dining room, a master bedroom andbathroom, or two bedrooms and twobathrooms.

The aircraft is always ordered green (egwithout interior) with completions to orderfrom suppliers in Europe and the USA.

Like the BBJ there are built-in airstairs togive self-sufficiency at airports withreduced ground support.

The cargo holds are easily loaded, with amaximum cargo volume of 34.7m3.

Almost 20 feetlonger thanthe BBJ 1 with AviationPartnersblendedwinglets fittedas standard.There areunderwingCFM-56turbofans andthe familiar737 swepttailfin withdorsal fin andlow settailplane.


Wingspan 117’ 5” 35.8mHeight 41’ 2” 12.5mCabin Length 107’ 2” 33.66mCabin Width 11' 7" 3.53mCabin Height 7’ 1” 2.16mMax Range 4,765nm 8,825kmMax Seating 10 + 189Typical Seating 3 + 8-25Powerplant 2x CFM International CFM 56-7 27,000lbs/120kN eachMax Cruise Speed 471ktas 872km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 3,100fpm 945mpmTake off Distance 7,000ft 2,134mLanding Distance 2,475ft 754mMTOW 187,700lbs 85,130kgMax Landing Weight 157,300lbs 71,350kgUseful load 77,700lbs 35,244kgPayload with full fuel 14,200lbs 6,441kgPrice $58m* €45.37**2009Price/Green – No exterior paint or interior furnishings


The BBJ 2 is derived from the 737-800airframe design, which provides improvedperformance in terms of higher range andspeed, lower noise levels and loweremissions than previous members of theBoeing 737 family. BBJ 2 was announced inOctober 1999 with production beginning inSeptember 200 and entry to service inFebruary 2002.

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BOEING BBJ 3

ARABdemand for more spacebeyond the “standard” BBJ,

saw the announcement at Dubai Air Showin November 2005 of a new addition to theBBJ fleet – a derivative of the 737-900ER-made the BBJ 3.

The aircraft has 1,120ft2 (104m2) ofcabin space, or 11% more than the 737-800-based BBJ 2.

With up to five auxiliary fuel tanks it hasa maximum range of 4,765nm (8,815km).Boeing says 26% of the BBJ worldwide fleetis based in the Middle East, and more than50% of the fleet in the region is made up ofthe larger BBJ 2.

The company opted to offer theincreased capacity-derivative of thestretched 737 model after rejecting a BBJvariant based on the shorter-fuselage 737-600.

HERITAGEBoeing says it will extend plans to includewide body aircraft like the 787 Dreamlinerto the BBJ range. The current range makes use of the 737“next generation” family with its high lifedevices and greater speeds over theoriginal 737-100 family of “baby Boeings”.The maiden flight of the first NG 737 was inFebruary 1997.

Again, theblendedwinglets, non-airlinelivery andairstairsdenote theBBJ from thecommercial737s.


Wingspan 117' 5" 35.8mHeight 41' 2" 12.5mCabin Length 98' 4" 29.97mCabin Width 11' 7" 3.53mCabin Height 7' 1" 2.16mMax Range (8) 5,580nm 10,334kmMax Seating 2 + 50Typical Seating 2 + 8Powerplant 2x CFM56-7 27,000lbs/120kN eachMax Cruise Speed 470ktas 871km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 3,100fpm 944mpmTake off Distance 8,560ft 2,609mLanding Distance 2,500ft 762mMTOW 187,700lbs 85,140kgMax Landing Weight 157,300lbs 71,350kgUseful load 70,980lbs 32,196kgPayload with full fuel 998lbs 452kgPrice $64m* €50.07m**2009Price/Green – No exterior paint or interior furnishings

SPECIFICATION

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BOMBARDIER CHALLENGER 800 SERIES

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Airliners

THIS flag carrier is the Challenger850, a business jet based on the

Bombardier CRJ200 regional jet platformand comes in two variants – the executivebusiness aircraft and the corporate shuttle.

The latter variant was launched atEBACE, Geneva in May 2005 andBombardier outlined a shuttle series toinclude modification of the CRJ 700 andCRJ 900 to become the Challenger 870 and890 in due course.

Although manufacturing of the CRJ 200has ended for regional jet programmes it iscontinuing for the business aircraft division

and in its business jet format. The 850combines Challenger performance andcustomer service and style with thedependability and reliability of a regional jet.Its large cabin – similar in size to a GlobalExpress - can accommodate 15 passengersfor missions of around 2,500nm and it canexceed 3,000nm with five passengers givingtrue transcontinental performance.

The standard interior includes theinflight mapping system from the RockwellCollins Airshow 410.

Continued overleaf

Length 87’ 10” 26.77mWingspan 69’ 7” 21.21mHeight 20’ 5” 6.22mCabin Length 48’ 5” 14.76mCabin Width 8' 2" 2.49mCabin Height 6’ 1" 1.85mCabin Volume 1,990 cu.ft 56.35m3Max Range (5) 3,044nm 5,637kmMax Seating 2 + 19Typical Seating 2 + 15Powperplant 2x GE CF34-3B1 8,729lbs / 41kNAvionics Collins Pro Line 4Max Cruise Speed M 0.80 459 KTAS / 850 km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of Climb 3,395fpm 1,034mpmTake off Distance 6,305ft 1,922mLanding Distance 2,910ft 887mMTOW 53,000lbs 24,040kgMax Landing Weight 47,000lbs 21,319kgUseful load 18,833lbs 8,546lbsPayload with full fuel 778lbs 354kgPrice $28.95 €22.59m

SPECIFICATION (CHALLENGER 850)

The Challenger 850

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BOMBARDIER CHALLENGER 800 SERIES (CONTINUED)Lufthansa Technik is completing the

interiors and painting the aircraft. Theagreement marks the first time a NorthAmerican business aircraft manufacturerhas entrusted an entire program ofcompletions to an overseas company. Italso marks an extension of LufthansaTechnik's capabilities to smaller-sizebusiness aircraft.

The shuttle version of the 800 serieslooks particularly attractive to Europeancustomers and reflects Bombardier’sextensive research into companies alreadyoperating shuttles.

In a standard configuration theChallenger 850 shuttle can fly 1,472nmwith its full load of 50 passengers in a 2+2(airline) seating configuration.

The 2,189-nm-range split-cabin version

carries 32 passengers–six in a separatedexecutive cabin and 26 in the aft cabin, orthere is a deluxe version for 27 passengers in2+1 (business-class) seating using a similarseat to those found on Challenger 300s.

The standard Challenger 870, which hasa range of 1,662nm, holds 70 passengersin airline seating; the split-level versionhas a range of 2,199-nm-and can carry 44people –eight executive sections and 36 inthe aft cabin. In the deluxe version there isrange of 2,232nm with 42 passengers inthe business-class-style seating.

With a range of 1,669nm, the standardChallenger 890 can accommodate 90passengers. The split-cabin edition holds52 (12 executive) and the deluxe versionhas 52 in business-class seating, with arange of 1,971nm.

Interior view of The Challenger 850shuttle.

Interior view of The Challenger 870 shuttle.

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Airliners

For several years Bombardier has been offering the Challenger800–a shuttle also based on the CRJ200–on an ad hoc basis. Buthas now decided the time is right to offer a more cohesive shuttlesolution because companies are increasingly finding it harder totransport employees efficiently on the airlines.Interestingly the whole CRJ fleet are derivatives of the Challenger601 business jet. The three CRJ models and the Challenger601/604 are also powered by the same engine–the General ElectricCF34. This now brings the airframe back to its roots.

HERITAGE

The Challenger 870

SPOTTER’S GUIDE

From the outside there is nothing to tell the Challenger 850 from its CRJ brother.

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226

DORNIER 328JET (ENVOY)

THEDornier 328Jet was based on a jetversion of the 30-seat Dornier 328

turboprop. Called the Envoy 3, the aircraftwas priced in the range of a mid-sized jet,but with a cabin size similar to that of largebusiness jets costing twice as much. Rangecan be extended to 2,000nm (3,700km), fromthe basic 328Jet's 918nm(1,700km), by addingfuel tanks although generally it is a little less.

Length 69’ 10” 21.28mWingspan 68’ 10” 20.98mHeight 23’ 9” 7.24mCabin Length 33’ 11” 10.34mCabin Width 7’ 2” 2.18mCabin Height 6’ 2” 1.89mMax Range (10) 1,900nm 3,519kmMax Seating 2 + 33Typical Seating 2 + 14Powerplant 2x P&WC PW306B 6,050lb/26.9kN eachAvionics Honeywell Primus 2000Max Cruise Speed 400ktas 740km/hMax Ceiling 31,000ft 9,449mRate of Climb* 1,938fpm 590mpmTake off Distance 4,535ft 1,382mLanding Distance 4,285ft 1,306mMTOW 33,047lb 14,990kgMax Landing Weight 31,724lbs 14,390kgUseful load 12,227lbs 5,569kgPayload with full fuelPrice $14.5m (2004) €11.31m

SPECIFICATION

HERITAGEThis aircraft has had atroubled history. Launchedby Fairchild Dornier as a jetpowered development ofthe Dornier 328 turbopropregional aircraft at theParis Airshow in 1997 thecompany soon realised itsexecutive jet application. Built in Germany andmarketed in the US the 328first flew in January 1998and was certified anddelivered in June 1999. Certification for the Envoy 3business jet followed laterin the month. Fairchild Dornier wentbankrupt in late 2002 andAvcraft purchased thecompany. Then Avcraft alsocollapsed. Now Corporate Jet Service,has acquired the Dornier328 type certificate fromthe AvCraft Aerospaceadministrators. They do notmanufacture, but providesupport for the 230 aircraftworldwide.

328JET SPOTTER’S GUIDE

The 328 has a high straight wing with the leading edge tapered. There are two underwing P&WC PW300 turbofan engines. There is a high tapered tailfin (almost T-tail) with a swept tail and dorsal fin.

Owners Corporate Jet Service subsidiary,328 Support Services, has been convertingjets to the 14-seat executive layout or the19-seat corporate shuttle as demandgrows...and at a very low cost.

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EMBRAER LINEAGE 1000IN

DEVELO

PMEN

T

EMBRAER is thinking big withits latest business

aviation offering. The Lineage is developedfrom the Embraer E-190 regional jetalthough with a maximum take off weightof 121,250lbs, the Lineage is closer to theweight of the 118-seat E195 airliner.

The Lineage’s 615cu.ft baggagecompartment is to be positioned above thefloor level to make space for additional fueltanks below to give additional range.

The available cabin space – in excess of4,000cu.ft (115m3) - offers five zoneswhich can be outfitted as work centres andmeeting spaces, or for gathering, dining andsleep, with seclusion for VIPs.

Two private lavatories, an optional third,and an optional stand-up shower completethe picture.

Surprisingly the aircraft is longer thanboth its BBJ and ACJ competitors.

The Lineage 1000, is to be powered by two 18,500lbs (82.3kN) thrust GE CF34-10E7 engines, will feature afive-screen Honeywell Primus Epicintegrated avionics suite.

It will have a maximum operating speedof Mach 0.82 and a ceiling of 41,000ft.

HERITAGEBased on the Embraer 190 commercial jetplatform, the Lineage was announced on 2ndMay 2006 at EBACE in Geneva. The E190 is itself a derivative of the E170commercial jet which rolled out in October2001 with first flight in February 2002. The stretched 190 first flew in March 2004.The Lineage 1000 is expected to enterservice in mid 2008.

The E190 onwhich theLineagederivative isformed has a lowswept wing andblendedwinglets, withtwin underwingpodded GECFE34-10E7turbofanengines. It has aclean swepttailfin with asmall dorsal finand a swepttailplane.


Wingspan 94' 2" 28.7mHeight 34' 8" 10.6mCabin Length 85' 25.9mCabin Width 8’ 10”Cabin Height 6’ 6”Max Range (8) 4,200nm 7,778kmMax Seating 2 + 19Typical Seating 2 + 18Powerplant 2x GE CF34-10E7 18,500lbs/82.3kN eachAvionics Honeywell Primus EpicMax Cruise Speed 469KTAS 869km/hMax Ceiling 41,000ft 12,497mRate of ClimbTake off Distance 6,900ft 2,100mLanding DistanceMTOW 120,150lbs 54,500kgMax Landing WeightUseful loadPayload with full fuelPrice $40.95m €31.95m

SPECIFICATION

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Airliners and Supersonic

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AERION SBJ

SUPERSONICair travelholds a

special place in the hearts of travellerseverywhere. Especially since Concorde hungup its wings in November 2003 there hasbeen much speculation about a potentialsupersonic business jet.

Aerion’s unveiling of a workable conceptat NBAA in 2004 was the first and work isprogressing on the design and testing. Theaircraft’s supersonic laminar flow wingreduces airframe drag by as much 20% overa delta wing such as Concorde and willallow efficient sub-sonic cruise speeds onroutings where supersonic flight isprohibited.

The cabin is planned to be comparableto super mid-size jets and willaccommodate eight to 12 passengers. Atypical mission from New York to Paris willbe reduced from today’s seven and a halfhours to four hours 15 minutes.

HERITAGEWith billionaire Robert Bassas Chairman and formerLearjet president BrianBarents as vice chairman,Aerion is being takenseriously. Added to the topteam is aerodynamicist DrRichard Tracey known for hiswork on the X-30, the GlobalHawk and the design of thecarbon composite Lear Fan.The company is based inReno, Nevada and was createdto pursue the development ofsupersonic transport. Thereare no dates for certificationor flight yet.

It could be someyears before thereis anything to seebut when the SBJdoes make theramp, it will behard to miss withthe laminar flowwings way backfrom the long nose.The twin Pratt &Whitney enginesare mounted to therear of thefuselage with aswept tail fin andmid mountedtailplane setbehind the tail fin.


Wingspan 64’ 2” 19.6mHeight 21’ 2” 6.5mCabin Length 30’ 9.1mCabin Width 6’ 7” 2.0mCabin Height 6’ 1.8mMax Range (8) 4000nm 7408kmMax Seating 2 + 12Typical Seating 2 + 8Powerplant 2 x P&W JT8D-219 19,600lb/ 87.2 kNMax Cruise Speed Mach 1.6 915ktas/1,695km/hMax Ceiling 51,000ft 15,545mRate of Climb n/kTake off Distance << 6,000ft 1,829mLanding Distance << 5,000ft 1,524mMTOW 90,000lbs 40,823kgMax Landing Weight n/kUseful load 45,100lbs 20,457kgPayload with full fuel n/kPrice n/k

SPECIFICATION

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■ BOEING COMMERCIAL AIRCRAFT GROUPIn 1996, Boeing’s Commercial Aircraft division (BCA) andGeneral Electric (GE) created a 50/50 partnership to create theBoeing Business Jet (BBJ) company. The BBJ series is built onfactory conversions of Boeing’s 737NG airliners for thecorporate jet market, BCA is based in Renton, Washington andis a unit of The Boeing Company.

It is the world’s largest manufacturer of civil aircraft asmeasured by total sales revenue (2005), but the second-largest civilaircraft manufacturer in total aircraft orders after Airbus. As thelargest exporter in the US, Boeing’s stock is a component of the DowJones Industrial Average.

Around 90 BBJs are currently in service, with approximately 35percent based in North America and 65 percent based in Europe,Asia/Pacific, Africa, Latin America and the Middle East.

Almost all versions of Boeing’s commercial airliners are in useas corporate jets, often for presidential or VIP transport. These rangefrom the popular B727, a few remaining B707s, up to the ultra largeB747-400s. CONTACT: Boeing Business Jets, P.O. Box 3707, MC1E-77 Seattle, WA 98124-2207USWeb: www.boeing.com /commercial/bbj

■ BELL HELICOPTERUSA based Bell Helicopter Textron helicopter and tiltrotormanufacturer is headquartered in Fort Worth, Texas. Thecompany manufactures military products in the US,predominantly at its sites in at Fort Worth and Amarillo, Texas,and commercial products in Mirabel, Quebec, Canada.

Bell was a former fixed wing manufacturer and produced thefamous Bell X-1, which, was the first aircraft to fly faster than thespeed of sound in level flight, flown by Chuck Yeager. The companyhas a close association with AgustaWestland with a partnershipdating back to separate manufacturing and technology agreementswith Agusta and Westland. When the two European firms merged,the partnerships were retained, with the exception of the AB139,which is now known as the AW139.

In addition to its commercial helicopters, which can beconfigured for VIP transport, Bell is developing a tiltrotor the BA609in conjunction with Italian company Agusta. The dual companyflight-tests for the aircraft supports dual production line plans forboth manufacturers.

Bell Helicopter is owned by Textron Inc, a $10 billion multi-industry company which also owns Cessna and Lycoming. CONTACT: Bell Helicopter, 13901 Aviator Way, FortWorth, Texas, 76177 USWeb: www.bellhelicopter.textron.com

BOMBARDIER AEROSPACEA subsidiary of Canada’s Bombardier Inc., BombardierAerospace took over the Canadian government-owned Canadairaircraft manufacturing company after it had recorded the largestcorporate loss in Canadian business history. The manufacturerthen added de Havilland Canada from Boeing and the bankrupt

Short Brothers firm and Learjet. Bombardier’s aerospace armnow accounts for over half its revenue.

The airframer is the world’s third largest manufacturer of civilaircraft behind Boeing and Airbus; the largest regional aircraftproducer (Canadair, de Havilland), ahead of Embraer; and trails justbehind Gulfstream as the second largest maker of business jets.

The company produces light (Learjet), mid-size (Challenger),and ultra-large/long-range (Global) business jets; CRJ regional jetsand Q Series Turboprops; and amphibious aircraft. Bombardier’sAerospace arm also provides military aviation training, pilot andmaintenance training, fractional ownership services (Flexjet), charterservices (Skyjet), aircraft interior completion, and maintenance,technical support, and parts services.

Bombardier’s family of business jets varies from the Learjet40XR to the top of the range ultra-long range Global Express XRS.The series is divided into the Learjet, the Global Express and theChallenger families. Employing 27,000 staff, the company posted asales growth of 2.1% at $15,741m (€12,354m) in 2005.CONTACT: Bombardier Aerospace, 400 Cote-VertuRoad West, Dorval, Quebec H4S 1Y9, Canada Web: www.bombardier.com

■ BRITTEN-NORMAN GROUP Britten-Norman Group (BNG) was formed by John Britten andDesmond Norman in 1955 in the UK and began making the twin-engine, 10-seat Islander in 1966 and the three-engine, 18-seatTrislander by the 1970s. BNG also manufactures the militarisedDefender 4000, which is a stretched variant of the Islander. Allthree aircraft are capable of short take-off and landing (STOL)operations and usually used for inter-island hops.

The private company was acquired by B-N Group in 2000 andformed its manufacturing subsidiary Britten-Norman Aircraft Limitedin 2002. The company is owned by the Zawawi family from theSultanate of Oman, making it one of the UK’s two last independentcommercial aircraft producers.

Britten-Norman has sold more than 1,250 aircraft to customersin 120 countries worldwide and performs maintenance, overhaul andrepair work as well as sub-contracted engineering and design work.BNG’s only factory is in Bembridge on the Isle of Wight in the UK,although some airframes were assembled under license in Romania.

Many modern Islanders/Defenders have been fitted with turbinerather than piston engines and turbine-Islanders are the only fixed-wing aircraft in use by the British Army. The company posted salesof $19.7m (€15.5m) in 2005.CONTACT: B-N Group Limited, Bembridge Airport,Bembridge, Isle of Wight PO35 5PR United KingdomWeb: www.britten-norman.com

■ CESSNA AIRCRAFT COMPANYCessna is the world’s largest manufacturer of general aviationairplanes, based on the number of aircraft sold. In 2005 thecompany delivered more than 1,100 aircraft and reported revenuesof $3.5bn (€2.85bn). The company – headquartered in Wichita,Kansas USA – is celebrating its 80th anniversary during 2007.

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■ ADAM AIRCRAFT INDUSTRIESAdam Aircraft was founded by George F. Adam Jr. and John C.Knudsen at Centennial Airport in Arapahoe County, Colorado,USA in 1998. The company designs and manufactures aircraftfor civil and government markets, using computer-aided design,rapid prototyping, advanced manufacturing techniques, andcarbon composite materials. Adam’s carbon fibre pressurisedtwin piston-engined centreline thrust Adam A500 has been typecertified by the FAA. Its larger twinjet sister, the Adam A700AdamJet falls into the Very Light Jets (VLJ) category.

Adam has over 80,000 square feet (7,430 square metres) ofoffice and manufacturing space in Englewood, Colorado, 22,000square feet (2,040 square metres) of manufacturing and testing spacein Pueblo Colorado and 22,000 square feet at Assembly 2 in Ogden,Utah. In 2006 the company raised $93m (€73m) through a privatefunding round led by US venture capital firm DCM. At the end of2005 in conjunction with other partners, the company won a majorcontract from the US Defense Advanced Research Projects Agencyfor the development of a next-generation rotorcraft.CONTACT: Adam Aircraft Industries, 12876 East AdamAircraft Circle, Englewood, CO 80112 USWeb: www.adamaircraft.com

■ AERION CORPORATIONAerion Corporation is an advanced aeronautical engineeringorganisation headquartered in Reno, Nevada, USA. Thecompany is focused on the commercialisation and developmentof new concepts in supersonic transportation.

Aerion has earned patents on several concepts related tosupersonic aerodynamics and structures, including patents on asupersonic natural laminar flow wing design.

In addition to the Reno organization, Aerion includes anengineering group in Palo Alto, California specialising in advancedcomputational methods for flow analysis and design optimisation.

The company was set up to bring supersonic business aircraftto market it is headed by Robert Bass, president of Keystone, Inc.and the founder of the Oak Hill investment partnerships, as

chairman. There is a strong team behind him. Brian Barents is vicechairman. He is the former CEO of Learjet and Galaxy Aerospacewhere he was responsible for the development and successfulintroduction of new-technology business jets. COO MichaelHenderson was Boeing’s chief project engineer for enablingtechnologies, and Richard Tracy, Chief Technology Director whodeveloped the natural laminar flow supersonic wing, and conductedresearch on its capabilities privately and under subsequent DARPAgrants. He has worked on both civil aircraft and defense programs,including the Global Hawk and the single-stage-to-orbit X-30. Heled the initial design on the Learstar 600 for Bill Lear, later producedas the Canadair Challenger.

Aerion’s business case is to seek a leading manufacturer(s) tobuild a consortium of suppliers to distribute the development andcertification cost among the risk-sharing partners for its supersonicbusiness jet (SBJ) Contact: Aerion Corp.1325 Airmotive Way, Suite 370,Reno, NV 89502 www.aerioncorp.com

■ AGUSTAWESTLANDBritish and Italian partners GKN plc and Finmeccanica S.p.Amerged their helicopter subsidiaries GKN-Westland Helicoptersand Agusta to form AgustaWestland, a 50/50 joint venture in2001. Finmeccanica bought out GKN’s stake in 2004 and nowfully owns the company. Prior to the merger, Agusta andWestland had each been manufacturing helicopters for morethan 50 years. The companies first collaborated in the 1960s,when Westland started licence production of the Agusta AB47,better known as the “Sioux”.

AgustaWestland’s civil rotorcraft include the A119 Koala; theA109 Power and Power Elite; and medium transports AB412,AB139, and BA609 Tiltrotor. Military aircraft include the multi-roleSuper Lynx 300; the light utility A109 LUH; the 10.6-ton NH90; themedium-lift EH101; and the US101, which will be the new USpresidential helicopter. AgustaWestland also produces the Apachehelicopter under license from Boeing.

The company’s industrial capability comes from specialistcentres producing key helicopter segments linked to integrationlines situated in Vergiate, Italy, Yeovil, UK, and Philadelphia, USA,which are responsible for final assembly, flight test and delivery. Itparticipates in a number of joint ventures and collaborativeprogrammes with major European and American helicopter primesand is represented around the world by subsidiaries and jointventures including: AgustaWestland Inc., Agusta AerospaceCorporation and Bell/Agusta Aerospace Company in the USA;Agusta Aerospace Services and EHI Ltd in Europe.

In summer 2006 the company employed 8,530 people had aproduction value of $3,170 m (€2,490m ), and an order backlogvalued at $9,410m (€7,397m ) with future orders of $4,725 m(€3,712m).CONTACT:AgustaWestland Italy , Via Giovanni Agusta,52021017 Cascina Costa di Samarate (VA) ItalyWeb: www.agustawestland.com

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holding by Microsoft. In 2005 the company won the US NationalAeronautic Association’s prestigious Robert J. Collier Trophy fordesigning and developing its VLJ.CONTACT: Eclipse Aviation, 2503 Clark Carr Loop SEAlbuquerque, NM 87106 USWeb: www.eclipseaviation.com

■ EMBRAER-EMPRESA BRASILEIRA DEAERONÁUTICA S.A

Embraer, the Empresa Brasileira de Aeronáutica S.A. (Embraer)is a Brazilian aircraft manufacturer producing commercial,military, and corporate aircraft, aircraft components andmission systems for air and ground operations.

Between 1999 to 2001 it was Brazil’s largest exporter and istoday one of the country’s three main exporters. Employing morethan 17,000 people worldwide, it has the fourth largest workforceof airframe manufactures (behind Boeing, Airbus and Bombardier),and the third largest annual delivery of commercial aircraft (behindBoeing and Airbus). The company has maintenance andcommercial sites in the US and sales offices in France, Singaporeand China.

Headquartered in São José dos Campos, São Paulo, Embraer’smain production facilities and engineering and design offices arealso at the same site. The manufacturer has a production plant inGavião Peixoto, São Paulo, which boasts a 16,400 feet (5000 metre)runway for flight-testing. The company also sells transport, lightattack, and surveillance aircraft, mainly to the Brazilian Air Force.

Embraer was founded in 1969 as a government initiative andprivatised on December 7, 1994. In March 2006 the majority ofshareholders approved its capital restructuring proposal, whichconsisted of a simplified capital structure, contributing to enhancedcorporate governance practices and transparency standards. Brazil’sgovernment pension funds own more than a 20% share.

In May 2005 the company launched two new business aircraftmodels, a very light jet and a light jet dubbed the Phenom 100 and300, respectively. The pair join its super mid-size Legacy 600 and avery large jet, the executive version of its E-190, the Lineage 1000.CONTACT: Embraer, Avenue Brigaderio Faria Lima2170, 12227-901 San Jose dos Campos SP, BrazilWeb: www.embraer.com

■ EPIC AIRCRAFTEpic Aircraft is based in Oregon US and is a subsidiary ofAircraft Investor Resources (AIR). It is developing two aircrafttypes, an all-composite turboprop, which also comes in kit formand a Very Light Jet, the Elite. In June 2006 Epic said it wouldfly the Elite for the first time at the July’s Oshkosh AirVentureshow, but was prevented by a US court injunction from doing sobecause of a dispute over a wing co-developed with UK’sFarnborough Aircraft Company Ltd (FACL). As a consequenceEpic does not exhibit the Elite anywhere, including websites ( and the reason it is not featured in this book).

The company has a short but turbulent history and filed acountersuit last year against Abu Dhabi’s Gulf Aircraft Maintenance

(GAMCO), claiming that GAMCO misappropriated its intellectualproperty by signing an MOU with FACL without AIR’s knowledge.Epic insists that the jet programme is continuing and says theplanned jet uses a different wing. The aircraft was to be producedwith Tbilisi Aircraft Manufacturing (TAM) in Georgia.

The company also offers a four-place kit aircraft, the AIR IV-PB LT, that home builders can take away to complete. Thecompany has constructed a centre where kit builders canconstruct their aircraft–using production tooling–at its “BuildFacility” in Bend, Oregon, which will double as a manufacturingplant for certified LTs.

The Epic LT will be certified first by Transport Canada, with FAAand EASA tickets shortly after – anticipated for first quarter 2007.The company will also create a duplicate of its production plant inBend in Alberta, Canada, effectively doubling its manufacturingcapacity. CONTACT: Aircraft Investor Resources, LLC, 2121Redbird Drive, Las Vegas, NV 89134Web: www.epicaircraft.com

■ THE EUROCOPTER GROUPThe Eurocopter Group is a wholly owned subsidiary ofEuropean Aeronautic, Defense and Space Company (EADS) andEurope’s largest manufacturer of helicopters. It is now Europe’sleading fully integrated aeronautical group, consisting of threeentities: the parent company, Eurocopter, the Germansubsidiary, Eurocopter Deutschland and the third pillar,Eurocopter España.

Eurocopter was formed in 1992 by the merger of the helicopteroperations of Germany’s DaimlerChrysler Aerospace and Frenchcompany Aerospatiale Matra. In addition to building a range ofmilitary and civilian helicopters, the company offers repair,maintenance, and overhaul services.

Eurocopter’s civilian products include the Colibri, the Ecureuil,the Dauphin, and the Super Puma; military models include the Tiger,Panther, Cougar, and NH90.

At the time of writing parent company EADS’ largest holding isan 80% stake in Airbus and it is about to purchase the remaining20% from BAE Systems.

Other operations include turboprops (Socata), business andmilitary jets (46% of Dassault Aviation and 43% of Eurofighter),satellites (Astrium), missiles (38% of MBDA), and commercialsatellite launch systems (about 29% of Arianespace). The companyposted a net income growth of 646% in 2004 with sales of morethan $42,117m (€33,092m).CONTACT: Eurocopter, Aéroport International deMarseille, 13725 Marignane, , FranceWeb: www.eurocopter.com

■ EVIATION JETSIn 2003, after three years of research, USA, Ames, Iowa basedreal-estate developer Matt Eller paid $441,000 (€346,080) toacquire the intellectual property of bankrupt airframerVisionAire. He went on to found Eviation Jets to create the

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Since the company was first created by Clyde Cessna andintroduced the cantilever wing to the world, Cessna has deliveredsome 187,000 aircraft to almost every country around the globe. Theglobal fleet of more than 4,500 Citations is the world’s largestbusiness jet fleet.

Cessna is owned by Textron Inc, a $10 billion company whichalso owns Bell Helicopter and Lycoming. The company’smanufacturing production facilities are located in Wichita, Kansas;Independence, Kansas; and Columbus, Georgia

Its product range includes single engine piston aircraft used byflying schools and GA owner- pilots – indeed over half of thegeneral aviation aircraft flying today are Cessna’s – through to therugged utility aircraft, the Caravans and onto the business jetCitation fleet which ranges from an entry-level jet the Mustang,through to the world’s fastest civil aircraft in service, the Citation X.

Cessna has nine Citation Service Centres located throughoutthe United States and two international Citation Service Centres. CONTACT: Cessna Aircraft Company , One CessnaBlvd, Wichita, KS 67215 USAWeb: www.cessna.com

■ DASSAULT AVIATION French company Dassault Aviation manufactures military,regional and business jets. Named after its founder MarcelBloch in 1928, the company changed its name when hechanged his in 1947. It was renamed Dassault Aviation in 1990.

Traditionally its Falcon family of corporate jets has accountedfor most of its sales, but a slowdown in commercial aviationrevenues has meant that its military offerings, the Mirage and Rafalejet fighters, account for a significant portion of its income. Dassaulthas also teamed up with SAFRAN to develop unmanned aerialvehicles (UAVs) and is the prime contractor for joint manufacturerEADS’ combat UAVs.

The founding Dassault family still owns 50% of the companywith EADS accounting for a further 46%.

A subsidiary of Dassault Aviation, Dassault Falcon Jet beganproduction in 1963 and sells and supports Falcon 50EX, 900DX,900EX, 7X, 2000, and 2000EX business jets.

The airframer also offers engine maintenance, spare parts andtools distribution, parts exchange, special equipment testing,operational assistance, and pilot, maintenance, and cabin crewtraining. To date it has produced more than 1,600 Falcon jets.

Dassault Falcon Jet builds its aircraft in France, and then fliesthem over to its US facilities for exterior painting and interiorcompletions. In 2005 the group posted revenues of $4,589m(€3,607 m ) with $1,460m (€1,147 m) coming from DassaultFalcon Jet.CONTACT: Dassault Aviation, 9, Rond-Point desChamps-Elysées, Marcel Dassault, 75008 Paris, FranceWeb: www.dassault-aviation.com

■ EADS SOCATAEADS owns both Airbus and Socata as well as Eurocopter. TheEuropean Aeronautic Defence and Space Company (EADS) is

the second largest aerospace and defence company in theworld after Boeing. EADS is a complex merger ofDaimlerChrysler Aerospace (DASA, Germany), AerospatialeMatra (France), and Construcciones Aeronáuticas SA (CASA,Spain), which together form the consortium.

Socata produces piston engined and turboprop generalaviation aircraft, including small private and business aircraft. Thecompany also manufactures aircraft structures for other airframersincluding Airbus, Dassault, Embraer, Eurocopter and LockheedMartin. The company’s flagship turboprop, the Socata TBM 850,received FAA approval in January 2006; six weeks after EASAcertified the aircraft.

With over 6,000 aircraft in service worldwide, Socata is one ofthe leading general aviation manufacturers in the world. Itsheadquarters and production are located in Tarbes in SouthwestFrance and cover 128 acres, including 861,000 square feet of floorspace (80,000 square metres). The company also has premises inSouth Florida, which are its US headquarters for sales, marketing,spare parts distribution, technical and customer support.

Parent company EADS’ largest holding is an 80% stake inAirbus, (at the time of going to press, the other 20% was owned byBAE Systems). Other operations include helicopters (Eurocopter),business and military jets (46% of Dassault Aviation and 43% ofEurofighter), satellites (Astrium), missiles (38% of MBDA), andcommercial satellite launch systems (about 29% of Arianespace).The company posted a net income growth of 646% in 2004 withsales of more than $42,117m (€33,092 m )CONTACT: EADS Socata, Aeroport de Tarbes-Lourdes-Pyrénées, 65921 Tarbes Cedex 9, FranceWeb: www.socata.com

■ ECLIPSE AVIATIONEclipse Aviation is the brainchild of successful IT entrepreneurVern Raburn. In 1998 he founded the company to create theEclipse 500 Very Light Jet (VLJ), perhaps the best knownaircraft from the new category. Eclipse hopes that its 500 willbecome the backbone of a national air taxi service designed tooffer private jet travel to passengers at fares that are competitivewith conventional full-fare airline ticket prices. The 500 is theleast expensive twin-turbofan business jet in the world, and isdesigned for high hour/cycle operations. Florida-based DayJetis the company’s main fleet customer, with an order of 239Eclipse 500s.

In July 2006, the 500 received provisional type certificationfrom the Federal Aviation Administration, becoming the first ultra-light VLJ to be certified. Using a test fleet of five FAA conformingaircraft, the 500 was certified in more than 1,800 flights and 2,700flight hours.

Based in Albuquerque, New Mexico, the company employsabout 500 people with plans to double that number in 2007. At thetime of writing it had secured nearly 2,500 orders worldwide andplans to open facilities in New York and Florida.

Eclipse is owned by investors from the aerospace, automotive,and information technology industries, including an undisclosed

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Gulfstream is known for its innovative technology and inSeptember 2001 its Enhanced Vision System (EVS) was thefirst system of its kind to be certified by the FAA. EVSdramatically improves a pilot’s overall situational awareness.Gulfstream has subsequently advanced the technologyintroducing synthetic vision systems (along with avionicsmanufacturer Honeywell).

The company is also deeply involved in research into sonicboom suppression. It is preparing to fly a modified GV as a fly-by-wire testbed for its next generation of jets.CONTACT: Gulfstream Aerospace, 500 GulfstreamRoad, Savannah, Georgia 31407 USAWeb: www.gulfstream.com

■ HONDAJapanese car maker Honda launched sales of its HA420HondaJet in 2006 at the US Experimental Aircraft Association’sAirVenture show in Oshkosh, Wisconsin in the USA and hasset up a new US production company to pursue FAAcertification of the VLJ.

Honda Aircraft will be based in Greensboro, North Carolina, atthe Piedmont Triad International airport facility where the VLJ hasbeen designed and flight-tested.

Lead designer Michimasa Fujino was appointed president andchief executive of the company, which began operations in October2006 despite several setbacks. Fujino proposed the HondaJet in1995 and has spent 20 years developing technology for the carmanufacturer’s first aircraft.

Production will take place at an as-yet un-named location in theUS. Honda Aircraft will oversee marketing as well as sales andproduct support, which falls under a new partnership with PiperAircraft, who bring 80 sales and service centres to the table.

Honda and Piper say they are also exploring other areas ofalliance in the general and business aviation markets. Honda hasbeen collaborating with engine manufacturer GE on light businessjet engines since 2004. CONTACT: Honda Aircraft Company, Piedmont TriadAirport, North Carolina, USAWeb: www.honda.com

■ HONEYWELLHoneywell is a diversified technology and manufacturingcompany with 40% of its $29 billion sales coming fromaerospace products and services.

Honeywell’s aerospace business is headquartered in Phoenix,Arizona, USA and is a leading global provider of integrated avionics,defense electronics, engines, systems and service solutions foraircraft manufacturers, airlines, business and general aviation,military and airport operations.

The company’s capabilities rest in supplying sophisticatedavionics, flight safety products and systems, propulsionengines, auxiliary power units and wheels and brakes. In recentyears it has developed a number of sophisticated safetyproducts such as RAAS, a warning system to stop aircraft

runway incursions and synthetic vision systems which allowpilots to see through bad weather.

Honeywell’s aerospace products can be found on virtually everytype of aircraft in use, in nearly every region of the world.

The company employs more than 100,000 people in 95countries, 40,000 of them in the aerospace sector. Contact details: Honeywell Aerospace, 1944 East SkyHarbor Circle, Phoenix, Arizona 85034, USAwww.honeywell.com

■ PIAGGIO AERO INDUSTRIESPiaggio Aero Industries is an Italian aircraft manufacturingcompany and one of the world’s oldest aircraft manufacturers. Itis composed of two units based in Genoa and Liguria, Italy andtwo subsidiaries: Piaggio Aero France (Cannes France andPiaggio America (West Palm Beach, Florida). It has 1,450 staffon its payroll.

The manufacturer is primarily owned by, the Ferrari automotivefamily and its chief executive Josè di Mase, who have a combinedstake of 55%, with private shareholders and institutional investorstogether holding an additional 10% of the company.

In April 2006 Mubadala Development, a wholly ownedinvestment vehicle of the Abu Dhabi government, purchased a 35%stake in the company. The level of Mubadala’s investment is thoughtto be around $22.4m (€20m). The cash will possibly kick-startdevelopment of a new light business jet to join the company’sflagship P180 Avanti II twin pusher.

The original P180 was a long time coming to fruition. Theaircraft was tested in Italy and the US in 1980 and 1981. Acollaboration with Learjet to develop the aircraft was begun in 1982,but ended in 1986, when the prototype first flew. The P180 finallyobtained US certification in 1990.

The first 12 fuselages were built in Wichita, with H & H Partsand Plessey Midwest, then flown to Italy for assembly. The companyran out of money in 1994 and the project languished until 1998. Thenext generation aircraft, the Avanti II is having more success, with afleet order of 36 aircraft from New Jersey based fractional ownershipoperator Avantair, which markets the type exclusively. CONTACT: Piaggio Aero Industries, Via Cabraria, 4,Genova I-16154 , ItalyWeb: www.piaggioaero.com

■ PILATUS AIRCRAFTPrivately owned Pilatus Aircraft Ltd is the acknowledged worldmarket leader in the manufacture of single-engine turbopropaircraft and the only Swiss company to develop, produce andsell aircraft and training systems all over the world. It is alsolicensed to maintain and perform upgrades on a variety ofaircraft. Its first aircraft, the SB-2 Pelican took to the air in 1944.

Established in 1939 and headquartered in Stans, Pilatus ownsfour independent subsidiaries in Altenrhein, Geneva, Broomfield,Colorado (USA) and Adelaide (Australia). There are additional salesoffices in England, Malaysia and the United Arab Emirates. PilatusBusiness Aircraft, Ltd. in Broomfield, Colorado, was established in

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EV-20 Vantage Jet, a progressive 8–10 seat, all composite,twin-engine very light business jet. Eller has attracted privateinvestment to help fund the aircraft’s certification effort andbeyond.

The company acquired all of VisionAire’s technicaldrawings, trademarks, moulds and tooling, as well as a mock-up of the original Vantage Jet prototype. The city of Ameshelped finance the construction of a $5 m (€3.9 m) assemblyplant, which VisionAire never occupied. The plant was not partof the assets Eller bought.

Former VisionAire president Tom Stark is now working asa consultant for Eviation and the company has now completedthe critical design review of the EV-20 and will soon issuetenders to potential subcontractors to build a prototype. Thecompany is outsourcing parts manufacture and final assemblywill happen at Eviation’s research and development base in SaoPaulo, Brazil.

The twin-engine, 8-10-seat, all-composite aircraft has 12years of engineering, design and marketing behind it, includinginitial concept input by pioneering designer Burt Rutan. CONTACT: Eviation Jets, 235 Alexander Ave, Ames,Iowa 50010 USwww.eviationjets.com

■ EXTRA AIRCRAFT LLCExtra Aircraft is headquartered in North America in Lancaster,Pennsylvania, with a manufacturing plant in Germany.Founded in the 1980s by veteran German aerobatic pilotWalter Extra, Extra Aircraft became a US-owned and -operatedcompany in 2003.

Over the years, Extra and his team of engineers have built andcertified seven different aircraft.

The product line includes six highly specialized models: theEA-200, EA-300L, EA-300S, and EA-300LP aerobatic aircraft, aswell as the EA-400 and EA-500, business and touring aircraft.

One of the world’s most successful competitive aerobaticpilots, in 1982 Extra decided to design and build his ownaircraft. Extra’s Flugzeugbau (Extra Aircraft Construction)revolutionised the aerobatics flying scene and the aircraft stilldominate world aerobatic competitions.

The success of Extra’s first aircraft prompted him todesign a more powerful machine. His next version the EA-260was the plane that helped produce national titles for aerobaticchampions Patty Wagstaff and Klaus Schrodt. In 1988 threepilots flew the EA-300 in the World AerobaticChampionships. Today the 300-series aircraft are mostlycarbon fibre and are the only unlimited category planescertified to plus or minus 10 G’s.

In 1998 Extra unveiled the EA-400, a six-seat piston aircraft,and now also offers the turbo-prop version, the EA-500. CONTACT: Extra Aircraft LLC, 1935 Fruitville Pike,Lancaster PA 17601-3996 USAWeb: www.extraaircraft.com

■ FARNBOROUGH AICRAFT COMPANY LIMITEDFarnborough Aircraft Company’s (FACL) F1 utility turboprophas had a bumpy history, but is on course to market.

Farnborough Aircraft took over the Farnborough F1 program in2002, after its creator supersonic car inventor Richard Noble hadfailed to raise sufficient capital from small investors via the internet.Noble had designed a six seater turboprop composite taxi aircraft,the Farnborough F1, and its associated operating system. He aimedto raise funds by the project via supporters buying merchandise soldonline. He also intended to sell the aircraft through the internet.

Farnborough Aircraft reverted to a more traditional businessmodel and it is likely that the Gulf Aircraft Partnership ( a link withGulf Air’s GAMCO in Abu Dhabi) will market the airplane worldwideto a variety of potential operators. Rather than providing cash,GAMCO is likely to share risks via investing in a new 100,000-sq-ftcomposites manufacturing facility.

The Kestrel programme was beset by further difficulties whenFarnborough Aircraft (FACL) became involved in a dispute withOregon’s Epic Aircraft Company over intellectual property rights to aco-developed wing. However, the F1 Kestrel single-engine turbopropcompleted its ferry flight from Bend, Oregon in the USA to Redhill,Surrey in the UK in summer 2006. The nine-sector journey via GooseBay, Kuujjuaq, Sondrestrom and Reykjavik took just over 30h.

CONTACT: Farnborough Aircraft Corporation Ltd,Building X92, Cody Technology Park, Farnborough,Hants GU14 0LX UKWeb: www.farnborough-aircraft.com

■ GULFSTREAM AEROSPACE CORPORATIONGulfstream Aerospace Corporation is located in Savannah,Georgia, United States, and has been a unit of GeneralDynamics (GDAS) since 2001. The first Gulfstream aircraft wasthe twin-turboprop Grumman Gulfstream I. In 1978, Grummansold Gulfstream to Allen E. Paulson’s American Jet Industries,renaming the company Grumman American.

The company then bought Rockwell’s Aero Commanderprogram and completed Gulfstream Aerospace. In 1985, Chrysleracquired Gulfstream with Paulson remaining at the helm and a fewyears later he bought it back. In 1999 GDAS acquired the companyand in 2001, added the Galaxy Aerospace Company from IsraeliAircraft Industries (IAI). Their production lines, located in Israel, areused to co-produce the G100/G150 and G200 with IAI.

The company has manufactured more than 1,500 aircraft forcorporate, government, private and military customers worldwideand more than one-quarter of Fortune 500 companies operateGulfstream aircraft. In addition over 152 government and militaryGulfstream aircraft are in service in 35 countries worldwide in avariety of roles, including maritime surveillance, medical evacuation,weather research and astronaut training.

In 1997 the company won the US National AeronauticAssociation’s prestigious Robert J. Collier trophy for the GulfstreamV. The variant won the award again in another incarnation when theG550 won the prize in 2003.

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of high growth potential: including information management –providing “office in the sky” solutions – open system architectureand a next-generation GPS system.

Since 1997, Rockwell Collins has acquired a number of leadingaerospace companies including Kaiser, Hughes-AvicomInternational and Flight Dynamics. Contact details: Rockwell Collins Inc, 400 CollinsRoad N.E. Cedar Rapids, IA 52498, USAwww.rockwellcollins.com

■ SIKORSKY AIRCRAFT CORPORATIONSikorsky Aircraft Corporation was founded 1923 by aUkrainian-American aircraft engineer Igor Sikorsky. Sikorskycreated the first stable, single-rotor helicopter to enter full-scale production. In 1934 the company was absorbed into whatis now United Technologies Corporation (UTC), and remainsone of the world’s leading rotorcraft producers.

Its output includes the UH-60 Black Hawk used for troopassault, combat support, special operations, and medevacoperations; and the Seahawk, used for submarine hunting,missile targeting, anti-surface ship warfare, and search andrescue. It also makes experimental types like the Sikorsky X-Wing. The company also collaborated with Boeing on theComanche attack/scout helicopter, designed to utilise stealthtechnology, but the army cancelled the programme. Civilproducts include the S-76 and S-92, which are used for rescue,offshore oil, hospital, and corporate use.

Sikorsky supplied the US Presidential helicopter, MarineOne, between 1957 and 2005, but in January 2005 thegovernment selected Lockheed Martin’s AgustaWestland EH101as a replacement, which caused an outcry in Sikorsky’s homestate of Connecticut.

UTC recently acquired Schweizer Aircraft Corporation,which is now a subsidiary of Sikorsky. The product lines of thetwo firms dovetail, as Sikorsky concentrates on medium andlarge helicopters, while Schweizer produces small helicopters,UAVs, gliders, and light planes.

The firm’s main plant and administrative offices are in Stratford,Connecticut. It has other facilities in West Haven, Shelton, andBridgeport in Connecticut; West Palm Beach in Florida and Troy inAlabama. It also has branches all over the world.CONTACT: Sikorsky Aircraft Company, 6900 Main St.,Stratford, CT 06614, USAWeb: www.sikorsky.com

■ SINO SWEARINGEN AIRCRAFT CORPORATIONSino Swearingen Aircraft Corporation (SSAC) was founded in1999 and is backed by the Taiwanese government. Originallystarted as a partnership between Swearingen AircraftCorporation of San Antonio and Sino Aerospace InvestmentCorporation of Taiwan, the firm was incorporated in 1999. Thecompany was formed to develop, build and market the SJ30business jet.

The company’s headquarters and manufacturing and final

assembly facility is located at San Antonio International Airport,Texas. A large static test facility lies across the field. Additionalmain wing and fuselage manufacturing facilities are based atthe John D. Rockefeller IV Technology Centre on the airport inMartinsburg West Virginia.

SSAC also has a marketing facility at Orange County Airport inSouthern California. The company has employed 400 people, butrecently had to lay off 140 staff whilst it ramped up rate tooling forthe SJ30 production process. However, SSAC expects to reach itstarget of delivering 100 aircraft a year by 2010.

In July 2006 the SJ30 established world speed and rangerecords for a light business jet by flying from its US base in SanAntonio, Texas to Farnborough,UK, in 10h 24min, including a42min refuelling stop at Goose Bay, Canada.CONTACT: Sino Swearingen Aircraft Corporation, 1770Skyplace Blvd., San Antonio, TX 78216 Web: www.sj30jet.com

■ SPECTRUM AERONAUTICAL LLCCalifornia based Spectrum Aeronautical LLC designed a verylight let (VLJ), the Spectrum 33, using a revolutionary graphite-epoxy construction process, giving it virtually the same sizecabin as popular eight to nine seat light business jets, but atless than two-thirds of the weight.

CEO Linden Blue, formerly of Beech Aircraft, embarked onthe programme, a surprise late entrant into the VLJ market, in1995. The Spectrum 33 was unveiled at the US NationalBusiness Aviation Association convention in Orlando, Floridain 2005 and made its first flight from Spanish Fork thefollowing January.

For the past twenty years Blue has been working with theprincipals of Rocky Mountain Composites (RMC) to develop thetechniques necessary for building lighter airplanes out of advancedcomposites that are within economic reason. Over the last few yearsthey had succeeded in demonstrating disruptive new technologiesmaking these objectives a reality.

However, the future of the Spectrum 33 programmesuffered a major setback with the fatal crash in July 2006 of theonly version of the proof-of-concept aircraft at an airport nearSpanish Fork, Utah.

The test pilots Glenn Maben, Spectrum’s director of flightoperations, and Nathan Forrest, the company’s vice-director,were both killed in the accident.

The aircraft rolled right immediately after takeoff, reachinga 90 degree angle before the wingtip struck the ground.Preliminary US National Transportation Safety Board reportsindicate that the control linkage had been incorrectly connectedduring maintenance after the previous flight.

Blue and his team are now committed to refocusing theirefforts to bring the program back on schedule.CONTACT: Spectrum Aeronautical, LLC, 120Birmingham Suite 110E, Cardiff by the Sea, CA92007, USWeb: www.spectrum.aero

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1996. Altenrhein Aviation Ltd and TSA Transairco SA maintenancecentres are both fully owned subsidiaries of the Pilatus Group.

The company’s aircraft are renowned for their longevityand popularity. The legendary civilian PC-6 Porter wasintroduced in 1959 and is still in production today along withits successor, the Turbo Porter. 1978 saw the first flight of thetandem-seat PC-7 Turbo Trainer and to date the company hasbuilt more than 450 of the type.

Pilatus’ history contains some of the most famous names inrugged general aviation products. In 1979, the companyacquired British manufacturer Britten-Norman, which producesthe hardy Islander and Defender aircraft. It eventually soldBritten-Norman to finance its Pilatus Business Aircraft enterprise.In 1994 Pilatus introduced its most successful model, theturboprop-powered PC-12 multi-purpose aircraft. To date, morethan 600 of the type have been built. Its latest aircraft, the PC-21advanced military, trainer was rolled out in 2002.CONTACT: Pilatus Aircraft Ltd, P.O. Box 9926371Stans, SwitzerlandWeb: www.pilatus-aircraft.com

■ PIPER AIRCRAFTNew Piper Aircraft was formed in 1995 to buy key assets of thebankrupt pioneering general aviation player, Piper Aviation.Founded as the Taylor Brothers Aircraft ManufacturingCompany in September of 1927, the company filed forbankruptcy in 1930 and William Piper purchased its assets.

Piper, often called the “Henry Ford of Aviation,” believed that asimple low-cost private aircraft would flourish, even in the GreatDepression. Manufacturing ceased in the mid 1980’s, butrecommenced in 1995 when the company was acquired byshareholders including US investment firm, American CapitalStrategies (ACS). ACS now owns 94% of Piper’s voting equity.

New Piper’s output includes: trainers (Seminole, Arrow, WarriorIII), models designed for personal use (Saratoga II TC, Saratoga IIHP, Archer III, Piper 6X, and Piper 6XT), as well as business aircraft(Meridian, Mirage, and Seneca V).

In August 2006 the company dropped the “New” from itsname, reverting to Piper Aircraft and announced a partnership withHonda to market the new HondaJet. The firm is evaluating its output.It recently completed an extensive market survey to determine itsfuture project strategy, which will include new products orinnovations every year it says. CONTACT:Piper Aircraft Company, 2926 Piper Drive,Vero Beach, Florida 32960, USAWeb: www.newpiper.com

■ RAYTHEON AIRCRAFT COMPANYRaytheon Aircraft Company (RAC) is a subsidiary of the majorUS military contractor, Raytheon. The firm designs,manufactures, markets and supports Beechcraft and Hawkeraircraft for the world’s commercial and military markets. Thecompany’s headquarters and major facilities are located inWichita, Kansas, with other manufacturing operations in Salina,

Kansas, and Little Rock, Arkansas. The company also has 100authorised service centres worldwide.

Although RAC accounts for 13% of Raytheon’s business, it islikely to be sold during 2007. It lags its competitors on profitabilityand was hit badly after 9/11 and did not return to profit until 2004.The firm has also suffered as a result of some of its innovative aircraftdevelopments. The Premier I took a long time to perfect, although itnow enjoys strong sales. The Hawker 4000, formerly the Horizon,was unveiled in 1996 and only entered into service in 2006.

However, the revamped Beechcraft propeller aircraft isextremely popular and the Hawker 800XP, now 850XP, is theworld’s best-selling mid-size jet. RAC also markets, producesand supports a whole range of special-mission aircraft formilitary and governments worldwide. Missionised versions ofits King Air series, pistons, and Hawker 400XP and 850XP (andpredecessor models) are in service worldwide. Its King Air350ER offers extended range as well as overland and maritimeradars (HISAR and SeaVue) from sister company Raytheon’sSpace and Airborne Systems business.CONTACT: Raytheon Aircraft Company, PO Box 85,Wichita Kansas 67201-00854, USAWeb: www.raytheonaircraft.com

■ ROCKWELL COLLINSFor more than 70 years, Rockwell Collins has been recognisedas a leader in the design, production, and support ofcommunication and aviation electronics for customersworldwide. It operates from more than 60 locations in 27countries and employs some 17,000 people. The company’s2006 sales will be in the region of $3.8bn (€2.96 billion)

Its heritage is rooted in the Collins Radio Company formed in1933. Rockwell International Corporation purchased the CollinsRadio Company in 1973. The Collins legacy continued to befostered under Rockwell’s ownership until 2001 when it became anindependent company.

Headquartered in Cedar Rapids, Iowa, Rockwell Collinshas a balance of commercial and government customersallowing it to maintain stability in a volatile marketplace.Leveraging developments across both markets has helpedRockwell Collins reduce costs, extend product viability, andenhance the capabilities of its systems.

As well as its market-leading activities in the business aviationarena, Rockwell Collins supplies defence communication andelectronic solutions to the U.S. Department of Defense, foreignmilitaries, and manufacturers of military aircraft and helicopters.Products and systems include communication, navigation, andintegrated systems for airborne, ground, and shipboard applications.

Its work in the business aviation – and air transport market –includes supplying new and retrofitting avionics and cabinelectronics including next-generation information and flight displaysystems; Cabin information systems ; In-flight entertainment systemsincluding live, multiregion airborne TV, audio/video-on-demand,moving maps, real-time e-mail and Internet access, and more .

Going forward the company is well-positioned in five key areas

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