Spectrum puts midsize S-40 on developmental fast track | Aviation International News

Spectrum puts midsize S-40 on developmental fast track

The decision by Spectrum Aeronautical to flip-flop the development schedule for its airplanes by certifying the all-carbon-fiber midsize S-40 Freedom befor

By Mark Huber • Contributor

September 20, 2007

The decision by Spectrum Aeronautical to flip-flop the development schedule for its airplanes by certifying the all-carbon-fiber midsize S-40 Freedom before the S-33 Independence light jet could be judged as a shrewd move in years hence. After all, the market is already flush with diminutive light and very light bizjet offerings from a compendium of start-up and established manufacturers. Conventional wisdom, however, says there is probably room for new competitors in the midsize segment.

The decision to develop the $6.2 million S-40 first was based on “where we think the greatest product differentiation is,” Spectrum president Austin Blue told NBAA Convention News. “It is the right thing for us to do.” Blue said the S-40 is on track for 2009 certification and that FAA papers for the S-33 would follow “shortly thereafter.”

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