Two major milestones in the global launch of the world’s first single-engine Personal Jet were reached today when Cirrus Aircraft announced it had received Vision Jet Type Certificate approval from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) and delivered the first aircraft to Europe. The Vision Jet, as well as the best-selling SR series of high- performance piston aircraft from Cirrus, was on display at the European Business Aviation Convention & Exhibition (EBACE) in Geneva.
“This is an exciting day for Cirrus Aircraft and for our customers throughout Europe,” said Pat Waddick, President of Innovation & Operations. “The EASA approval of the Vision Jet Type Certificate paves the way for a ramp up of aircraft deliveries in Europe and continues to propel Cirrus Aircraft into new markets across the world. There is no better way to celebrate this achievement than to have the first Vision Jet delivered to Europe on display at EBACE this week.”
EASA approval comes after Cirrus Aircraft earned the Vision Jet Type Certificate from the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in October of 2016 and its Production Certificate earlier this month. With more than 600 production positions reserved, deliveries of the world’s first single- engine Personal Jet began last December. In addition to the EASA validation, the Vision Jet recently received approval from the Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA) in Australia as well.
This approval also arrives on the heels of EASA’s long-awaited approval in March of single-engine commercial IFR operations in Europe. Cirrus joins the chorus of general aviation industry voices praising the passage of the new rules, noting it will open the door to new growth opportunities across Europe. The new rules make business and personal travel more efficient by allowing single- engine turbine airplanes to fly both at night and under Instrument Meteorological Conditions (SET- IMC). “The EASA validation of the Vision Jet Type Certificate is a testament to the exceptional work and cooperation between the EASA, FAA and Cirrus Aircraft teams,” continued Waddick. “The technical expertise of all parties involved made this a fine example of how the bilateral validation agreement between the U.S and European Union can succeed. The only thing more satisfying than receiving EASA Type Certificate approval will be seeing our customers enjoy the benefits of this category- defining aircraft as they travel throughout Europe.”