Sonex Aircraft’s SubSonex jet aircraft prototype, JSX-1, made its maiden flight Wednesday, Aug. 10, at Wittman Regional Airport (OSH) in Oshkosh, Wis.
The SubSonex was piloted by Bob Carlton, an air show performer and owner of Desert Aerospace. The flight lasted approximately 14 minutes and focused on exploring the low-end of the aircraft’s speed envelope, including stalls, and a low approach in the landing configuration, according to company officials.
“It’s an exciting day for Sonex,” said SubSonex designer and Sonex Aircraft President John Monnett. “We have a test flight plan to expand the envelope of the aircraft, and we’ll see where the project takes us from here.”
“It was great — flies like an airplane,” Carlton said after the flight. “The faster I went, the better it felt.”
Carlton was selected to fly the aircraft based on his experience pioneering light jet aircraft, according to company officials. He is best known for his air show performances with the Super Salto jet sailplane, and is the developer of the Bonus Jet two-seat glider. The engines used on Carlton’s aircraft are the same as that used on the SubSonex: The PBS TJ-100.
For more information: SonexAircraft.com
