Piper Aircraft (booth 1156) contract orders for the PiperJet continue to increase, up to 193 at press time, with delivery scheduled for 2010.
“Our orderbook continues to grow in the face of stiff competition, as we define a new level of capability and features and set new standards of performance within general aviation,” says Bob Kromer, Piper’s vice-president of sales.
The six-passenger PiperJet – with an option for either a seventh seat or enclosable lavatory – offers a range of 1,300nm (2,400km) and a full-fuel payload of 800lb (365kg).
The PiperJet proof-of-concept aircraft continues to advance through various stages of assembly, with its fuselage currently in Piper’s flight test hangar. In the meantime, construction continues on the primary and secondary airframe structures as completion of the proof-of-concept draws near.
Most recently, a 1/5-scale model of the PiperJet with remotely controlled flight surfaces completed three weeks of testing at the Kirsten windtunnel at the University of Washington Aeronautical Laboratory in Seattle. The tests provided Piper engineers with essential data to make critical aerodynamic improvements.
Configured to be flown by a single pilot, the PiperJet will be certificated in the Normal Category under FAA Part 23 and applicable foreign certification standards.
“The PiperJet breaks the mould in offering an unparalleled blend of performance and luxury,” says James Bass, president and chief executive of Piper Aircraft.
For example, the PiperJet will provide passengers with an ergonomic interior that synthesizes a sophisticated color palette with a spacious, energetic design. Equally attentive to pilot and passenger comfort, the PiperJet incorporates features from rich leather seats and deep zebra wood details to perfectly placed storage, cup holders and docking stations for personal electronics.
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Source: Flight Daily News
