After years stalled in development, Cirrus Aircraft's SF50 Vision is closer to reality after the third and final certification test aircraft first flew last Saturday.
Known as C2, the aircraft took off from Duluth International Airport and completed a short 20-minute flight.
“Though this first flight was planned to be brief, C2 flew as predicted and initial handling qualities were confirmed," said Director of Engineering Flight Test, Mike Stevens. "More important, today’s flight is a reflection on the dedication and determination of the Vision jet development team. Thanks to each and every one of our team members in Duluth, we are moving forward into 2015 on schedule.”
“Today’s flight marks another milestone for Cirrus Aircraft and for General Aviation,” said Dale Klapmeier, CEO and Co-founder, Cirrus Aircraft. “We are full steam ahead with our plans to revolutionize personal transportation again. The passion and dedication of the entire Cirrus Aircraft team that has brought us to this point is truly inspiring. It’s another proud day at Cirrus."
Since its first flight on 24 March 2014, the first test aircraft, C0, has performed a wide range of aerodynamic performance and handling tests and will continue to expand its flight test regime in the near future, including in-flight parachute testing. The second aircraft, C1, first flew on 25 November with its primary focus on Flight Into Known Icing (FIKI) certification.
C2 now enters the program with the goals of performing reliability and optional equipment testing, as well as serving as a catalyst for flight standards and training evaluations. All three aircraft combined have logged more than 250 flight hours over 177 flights.
The next aircraft set to join the Vision SF50 jet program will be the first production aircraft, known as P1. P1 is scheduled to roll off the production line in the second half of 2015.