SubSonex Jet Completes Maiden Flight

Bethany Whitfield

Tuesday, August 16, 2011 at 11:00 PM ET

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Key Takeaways:

The SubSonex Jet, a very light experimental aircraft by Sonex Aircraft, successfully completed its 14-minute maiden flight in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, last week, piloted by Bob Carlton.
Powered by a PBS TJ-100 turbine engine, the jet aims to make recreational flying accessible to private pilots, giving them the "Jet Jock" title.
Although very light at 330 pounds, it cannot be an LSA due to its turbine engine, but private pilots can fly it as an Experimental-Amateur Built aircraft without needing a type rating.

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The SubSonex Jet, one very, very light jet powered by a Czech-built PBS TJ-100 turbine engine, took off for its first flight in Oshkosh, Wisconsin, last week, bringing the prospect of a recreational jet for private pilots one step closer to reality.

Renowned airshow pilot Bob Carlton, famous for his performances in a modified Salto sailplane also powered by the PBS TJ-100, was behind the controls of the SubSonex as it completed its maiden flight.