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Israel Aircraft Industries (IAI) has cleared the thrust reversers, ice protection system, autopilot and yaw damper for operation during flight testing of the Galaxy business jet. The aircraft accumulated 23h in the first 10 flights, reaching 25,000ft (7,600m) and 250kt (460km/h), and the programme is on schedule for certification by year end, says its subsidiary. Tests are concentrating on low speed performance, and a water ballast system has been installed to allow the centre of gravity to be shifted in flight. Stall speed has been confirmed and performance is meeting projections, says IAI.Galaxy has guaranteed that operating costs over five years will average below $850/h.

Source: Flight International