Experimental SubSonex Jet makes maiden flight

Aircraft kit manufacturer Sonex Aircraft has for the first time flown its SubSonex Jet, a project that it hopes will put a light jet within reach of the everyday pilot.

The US company says its SubSonex Jet, which it publically debuted at EAA AirVenture 2009, is an experimental aircraft that’s powered by a Czech-built PBS TJ-100 turbine engine and aims to bring the thrill of a jet within reach of a wider range of the pilot pool. Weight-wise, the SubSonex Jet is comparable to many LSAs, and Sonex Aircraft aim to offer it to private pilots who can’t afford the asking price of the cheapest personal jets, which currently go for around US$3 million.

CAPTION: The SubSonex Jet climbing out after a low approach. (Sonex Aircraft)

The SubSonex jet aircraft prototype, JSX-1, made its maiden flight on August 10 at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Piloted by Bob Carlton, an experienced airshow pilot who performs in a Super Salto jet sailplane that’s also powered by the PBS TJ-100, the flight lasted around 14 minutes and focused on exploring the low-end of the aircraft’s speed envelope, including stalls, and a low approach in the landing configuration.

“It’s an exciting day for Sonex,” SubSonex designer and Sonex Aircraft, LLC President John Monnett said. “We have a test flight plan to expand the envelope of the aircraft, and we’ll see where the project takes us from here.”

“It was great – flies like an airplane,” Carlton said after the flight. “The faster I went, the better it felt.”

CAPTION: Bob Carlton and John Monnett debrief after the maiden flight. (Sonex Aircraft)

SubSonex Jet basic specifications
Length: 4.80m
Wing span: 5.49m
Wing area: 5.57 sq. m
Empty weight: 150kg (330 lbs)
Max Gross Weight (take-off): 340.2kg (750 lbs)
Engine: 170-200 lb thrust turbine
Fuel Capacity: 32 US Gal. (121 Litres)
Construction: All aluminum riveted

Monnett has said his goal with the SubSonex Jet is to provide a robust yet inexpensive performance turbine-powered aircraft for the recreational pilot.

“Those with a need for speed are naturally attracted to this beautiful design,” he has said. “It will be as close as you can get to strapping on a jet pack and going for a ride while still flying in an airplane.”

The SubSonex will be offered only as a complete kit, with its wings being removable. An expected price point and entry into service schedule has yet to be announced. For more on the SubSonex Jet click here.