Cirrus has secured European validation for the second-generation G2 version of its SF50 Vision Jet – and delivered the first example to an owner in the region on 8 July.
The approval comes six months after the upgraded personal jet received US certification and entered service. To date, 35 Vision Jet G2s have been delivered, says Cirrus.
Cirrus Aircraft
The aircraft features a Garmin 3000-based Perspective Touch+ avionics suite, which incorporates a faster computer and brighter screens. The cockpit also gains an autothrottle and increased connectivity through Flight Stream 510 compatibility.
The cabin has a new modular four-seat executive layout and increased sound-proofing "for added comfort", while additional paint schemes are available for the exterior.
Two True Blue TB17 lithium-ion batteries replace the original lead-acid batteries, making the aircraft 14kg (31lb) lighter and providing a faster, cooler engine start.
The Williams International FJ33-5A-powered G2 has a maximum operating altitude of 31,000ft – 3,000ft higher than its predecessor – giving it access to Reduced Vertical Separation Minimum (RVSM) airspace.
"Operating at this altitude allows customers to either carry 150lb more on an 800nm [1,480km] mission, or fly 100nm more on full tanks," says Matt Bergwall, director of the Vision Jet product line.
Although both the Flight Stream 510 system and extra sound-proofing are available for retrofit on G1 models, take-up has so far been "modest", with the enhancements "installed on around 15%" of the roughly 90-strong G1 fleet.
The G2 carries a $2.75 million price tag, an increase of $250,000 over the original version, which entered service in December 2016.
The Vision Jet remains the only Part 23/CS-23-certificated single-engined jet on the market.
Cirrus has an orderbook for over 500 G2s and plans to deliver 80 units in 2019 and 100 in 2020, says Bergwall.
Source: Flight International
