Final Conforming Cirrus Vision SF50 Test Jet Takes To The Skies American manufacturer Cirrus Aircraft announces that the final conforming Vision SF50 test jet has made its first flight. Just a month ago in November, the second test bed of the type made its first flight and now just before the end of 2014, test aircraft C-Two (C-2) leaves the ground and securely propels the SF50 program towards certification. C2’s first flight took place on Saturday afternoon, 20 December at approximately 14:00 from Duluth International Airport (KDLH). Upon completion of the scheduled 20 minute flight, Director of Engineering Flight Test, Mike Stevens reported, “Though this first flight was planned to be brief, C2 flew as predicted and initial handling qualities were confirmed. 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.” Progress has accelerated further for the Vision SF50 personal jet flight test program in recent months. Since its first flight on 24 March 2014, 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. C1 first flew on 25 November 2014 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 ‘P-One” (P1). P1 is scheduled to roll off the production line in the second half of 2015. For more information: Cirrus Design Corporation 4515 Taylor Circle Duluth, MN 55811 www.cirrusaircraft.com ***
