Spectrum Readies For Certification

The graphite-epoxy structured 10-seater design-prototype Spectrum 33 is in early flight-testing and aiming for a 415-knot cruise at 45,000 feet. It intends to provide range capabilities reaching 2,000 nautical miles. In a complicated process like certification, it may be helpful for all involved to know the basic ground rules and that was the impetus behind a workshop held by Spectrum Aeronautical recently. The Utah company hopes to certify its Spectrum 33 business jet, which it claims is lighter and more fuel-efficient than comparable aircraft in the next couple of years, and invited certification experts from the FAA to conduct the seminar, which focused on achieving Part 21 standards. In a news release, Jon Adams, the company’s director of certification, said Spectrum views the FAA “as a partner” in the certification process. The workshop gave about 25 staff members from all facets of the company a chance to hear from the agency directly on what it likes to see. FAA staffer David McGhee said such sessions are a good idea. “This type of event is a great way to maintain open lines of communication between everyone working on certification projects,” he said. While Spectrum was the focus of the gathering, other local companies, including parts manufacturers and some aircraft builders, also attended. Meanwhile, the company is also getting ready to forge relationships with the European Aviation Safety Agency and the cooperation with the FAA will help with that, said Spectrum’s European CEO Dr. Stefano Sturlese. Europe is expected to be a major market for the jet.