First Flight Scheduled Later This Year

JetBird AG reports a number of key milestones have been achieved in the design and manufacturing program for the Embraer Phenom 100 very light jet (VLJ). The first Phenom 100 test flight is expected in mid-2007.

As Aero-News reported, JetBird has ordered 50 Phenom aircraft, with options to purchase a further 50. The company is slated receive its first European-certified Phenom 100 in April 2009.

Representatives with JetBird tell ANN engine manufacturer Pratt & Whitney Canada has logged over 600 hours of tests on the Phenom 100's PW617F engines. The first two flightworthy engines are expected to arrive at Embraer in early March, for installation on the prototype aircraft. Further testing is also underway on a fully-functional avionics rig and flight test instruments, in advance of the first test flights.

Assembly components for the Phenom 100 have started to arrive at the production facility, with flap actuators and engine inlets among the first components to arrive. The assembly of the first Phenom 100 prototype for test flight is underway, and initial test results show the manufactured fuselage is consistent with the virtual design created using Embraer’s cutting edge CATIA V5 design.

Separately, the Phenom 300 program has completed its schedule of wind tunnel testing, which confirmed expected performance. Preparations are now being made for the first metal cuts for a prototype aircraft. JetBird has the option of converting all or part of its remaining 50 options to the larger Phenom 300.

"We are delighted that the Phenom design and manufacturing program remains on schedule and, as European launch customer, look forward to receiving the first European certified Phenom 100 in April 2009," said JetBird Managing Director Paul Geaney. "JetBird continues to make steady progress against each of its strategic milestones and we remain on track to introduce Europe’s first true low cost private jet airline to market in 2009."

JetBird aims to be Europe's first low cost private jet airline, offering a private jet experience at up to 50% less than current branded operators.

FMI: www.embraerexecutivejets.com, www.flyjetbird.com