PiperJet to get Millennium seats

Piper Aircraft Inc. has selected Millennium Concepts, Inc. to design and produce seats for the PiperJet, the manufacturer's new very light jet.

The new light weight, ergonomically designed seats are built to withstand loads of 30G and have been undergoing extensive testing. They’re equipped with adjustable headrests, a break-over seat back and can be reclined for additional comfort.

The passenger seat will include a three-point restraint system. The crew version of the seat adds a dual harness torso restraint system, adjustable height, floor tracking and lumbar support. Both seats have discrete energy-absorbers in the seat pan and feature bolsters around the torso and thighs for maximum support.

“We are impressed with Millennium’s customer focus, commitment to excellence and quality workmanship in addition to its design work to integrate these modern seats,” Piper Aircraft President and CEO Geoffrey Berger said. “The combination meets our superior standards and we are delighted to have them join the PiperJet team.”

“This testing has demonstrated that it is one of the safest and most reliable seats available for this class of aircraft,” Millennium’s President and Managing Director Kevin Reifschneider said of the work being done on the PiperJet seat. “In tests conducted at the National Institute for Aviation Research, the seat performed exceptionally well and exceeded Federal Aviation Administration performance criteria.

“We’ve incorporated lighter materials, injection molding and high-precision CNC-based manufacturing techniques in the production of this seat, as opposed to traditional welded frame design using steel, which is generally heavier and less efficient. We are extremely pleased and honored to be a part of this exciting new airplane from Piper.”

The single-engine PiperJet will provide cabin seating for up to seven individuals. The first customer PiperJet deliveries are at this stage expected to begin in quarter two 2013.

For more on the PiperJet click here.