Grob Aerospace says European certification of its SPn business jet has been pushed back about six months to early 2008 due to the crash of the second prototype on a demonstration flight in Germany on Nov. 29. The crash — which occurred near the manufacturers Mattsies-Tussenhausen, Germany facility — killed test pilot Grard Guillaumaud. While the company awaits the cause of the accident from German authorities, work is proceeding on a new test aircraft, which should be flying in the New Year. In a news release, CEO Niall Oliver said Grob remains committed to developing the $7 million jet and that customers have been superb in their understanding and reaction to the tragedy. The SPn is a carbon-fiber 10-place utility jet that Grob says will have a range of 1,800 nm with seven of the seats filled. The company says the airplane will have the most advanced glass cockpit of any aircraft in its class (Honeywell Primus Apex) and will also be able to use grass and gravel strips. Minimum runway at MTOW is 3,000 feet.
Grob Jet Program Proceeds
Key Takeaways:
- Grob Aerospace has delayed the European certification of its SPn business jet by six months to early 2008, following the fatal crash of its second prototype in November that killed test pilot Grard Guillaumaud.
- Despite the tragedy, Grob Aerospace remains committed to the SPn project and is constructing a new test aircraft expected to fly in the New Year.
- The SPn is a $7 million, carbon-fiber, 10-place utility jet boasting an advanced glass cockpit, an 1,800 nm range, and the capability to operate from grass and gravel strips.
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