…A First For Extra, And Safire Reaches Out

Safire Aircraft has kept a low profile, as it transitioned from the S-26 program to the six-seat Safire Jet design and set up shop in Opa Locka, Fla., and acquired 300 orders. At the show, company officials announced that the Williams F-J33 engine — currently undergoing certification — will provide 1,530 pounds of thrust to move the $1.395 million jet along at an undisclosed clip. The first Safire Jet flight-test aircraft is planned to fly in the first quarter of 2004. Extra Aircraft took things a step further. Walter Extra himself flew the brand-new EA-500 to the convention’s static-display area at Orlando Executive Airport. This marks the first public viewing of the new high-wing executive aircraft and a first for Extra since its reorganization. The EA-500 utilizes the EA-400 airframe, and is powered by the Rolls Royce 450-hp model 250-B17F/2 engines with a MT Propeller five-bladed, reversible composite prop. Company officials recently announced the resumption of work at their Frankfurt facility and a jump-start of stalled work when new ownership came into Extra Aircraft’s picture. Aside from the EA500, the company will continue to produce the EA400 and EA300L aerobatic aircraft. So, would you like to get the full scoop on NBAA? AVweb’s BizAv has got you covered with a full wrap of the event in its upcoming issue. Don’t forget, BizAv is your online source for the latest business aviation news, so stay tuned to AVweb.