Israel aircraft Industries (IAI) has revealed that its Galaxy business jet reached its planned maximum speed during a flight test on 27 March.
The twin engined aircraft was flown at Mach 0.85 at 42,000ft (12,800m). The Galaxy also reached its planned maximum operating altitude of 45,000ft. The full-envelope flight was the longest to date, lasting 5h 50min.
The Galaxy has completed 24 test flights and accumulated a total of 81 flying hours since its maiden flight on 25 December, 1997. The second Galaxy prototype is due to begin flight tests by the end of May. IAI is scheduled to complete certification by the end of the year.
Galaxy Aerospace has four orders and 17 deposits on the aircraft. First deliveries are planned for early 1999.
Source: Flight International
