Spectrum Aeronautical’s all-composite S.40 Freedom light jet is subject to a number of special conditions mandated by the FAA to achieve type certification. These conditions cover many flight and performance characteristics, as well as new requirements for lithium main, auxiliary and emergency batteries. According to the special conditions, the GE Honda HF120-powered S.40 will have a maximum takeoff weight of 9,550 pounds, a 45,000-foot maximum altitude and seats for up to nine passengers. Maximum ramp weight is 9,580 pounds, according to Spectrum spokesman Mark Jones, and certification is planned under Part 23 regulations, allowing for single-pilot operation. The S.40 program is progressing at Spectrum’s Spanish Fork, Utah manufacturing facility, he said, and first flight should take place either late this year or more likely early next year. The prototype is not yet looking like an airplane, Jones said, and the company is currently focusing on the engineering documentation phase. Tooling to manufacture the prototype’s parts is in development. Type certification, followed closely by production certification, is expected to take place 12 to 18 months after first flight.