Several years ago, we witnessed the debut of a new class of aircraft – the Very Light Jet, or VLJ. By definition, these aircraft weigh less than 10,000 pounds and are designed for single-pilot operations. They are powered by two turbofan engines, seat five or six passengers, have the latest in automated avionics, and cost less than a newer light jet.

These “micro jets” have advantages over most jets in their shorter landing distance requirements, single-pilot certification, less complex systems, lower operating cost, and lower cost of capital. The target markets for VLJ’s are owner-pilots of high-performance piston singles and twins, plus some entry-level turboprops.

Realizing the billion dollar industry this would become, the price of admission to a jet seat was further reduced with the introduction of the Personal Light Jet, or PLJ. These jets are powered by a single turbofan engine versus its twin counterpart, the VLJ. This enables an even lower entry cost of capital, but reduces performance as well. The biggest hurdle for these companies is the promotion of a “single-engine” aircraft, where the twin engine redundancy for safety is not available. That being said, reliability of the turbine engine is much higher than its piston engine counterpart.

Delivery dates of these aircraft seem to be pushing back into 2012 & 2013. Certainly, these manufacturers have struggled through this economy like most of us, but orders seem to be high, and deliveries will begin once the FAA certification process is complete. For those owner-pilots currently flying high performance piston aircraft, now is an economically good time to place an order for a PLJ, before prices begin to rise.

Here is the most current list of Personal Jets being developed with updates on their respective programs:

Cirrus Vision SF50

Over $60 million has been raised to develop this five-seat jet. It has achieved 270 hours on one prototype. Certification is now estimated to take place in 2013. Despite this delay, Cirrus has received close to 450 deposits for this aircraft. It is marketed as a step up from the SR20/22s. It will fit in the same size hangar and also have a parachute like its piston-powered Cirrus. Price is $1.71 million. It has a single Williams FJ33 engine for power, will cruise at 300 knots and will cover 480 nautical miles with all seats full or 1,150 with two.

http://cirrusaircraft.com/vision/

Diamond D-Jet

No updates of the D-Jet program have been posted in over a year, although the fifth and last prototype will be ready in early 2011. Delays with this program can be attributed, in part, to a late switch from TKS to boot de-icing and a change to the more powerful Williams FJ33-5A engine (and a modified air inlet) rated at 1,900 pounds thrust. Current weight data show a useful load of 2,240 lb, of which up to 1,740 lb could be the fuel to get the aircraft its max range of 1,350 nautical miles. Cost in March 2009 was $1.89 million and so far has gained 400 orders. Customers include SmartAir, Europe’s first fractional ownership company for single-engine jets.

http://www.diamondaircraft.com/aircraft/djet/

Eclipse 500

This company was reformed just over a year ago. The new Eclipse company is focused on supporting and upgrading the 259 aircraft previously delivered. As of yet, there is no known plan for new production, although this would be a logical step in the future.

http://eclipseaerospace.net/index.php

Epic Victory

This is a five-seat, single engine jet. Power comes from a Williams FJ33, which yields a 250 knot cruising speed and a range of 1,200 nautical miles.

http://www.epicaircraft.com/Victory.html

PiperJet

This aircraft is mostly metal, unlike its composite counterparts. It’s powered by a FJ44-3AP engine, cruises at 320 knots, and has a maximum range of 1,300 nautical miles. Price was $2.199 million in 2006 dollars. This aircraft sports a Garmin 3000 EFIS and certification and first deliveries are expected in the first half of 2013.

http://www.piper.com/home/pages/PiperJetAltaire.cfm

Another most likely use for the PLJ will be to serve as corporate planes. Smaller companies that would never have considered purchasing a private plane will now consider owning this “micro jet” due to its significantly smaller price tag and operating costs. Fractional companies and air taxi operators are also jumping on board with this market.

Stay tuned. 2011 has a good feel to it. If you are in the market for a PLJ or any other type of aircraft, we at Special Services will be glad to provide a free consultation and assist you in making the right decision for your particular need.