Spectrum’s Independence Leads to Freedom
Despite the crash of its Spectrum 33 prototype in late July, Spectrum Aeronautical has not only vowed to continue the aircraft program but yesterday revealed it also is developing a new midsize business twinjet called the Freedom S-40. The 2,050-pound-thrust GE Honda HF120, a derivative of the HondaJets HF118 engine, will power the all-composite midsize jet. The Freedom is Spectrums second model and is considerably larger than the $3.65 million Spectrum 33, which has been rebranded as the Independence S-33.
Despite the crash of its Spectrum 33 prototype in late July, Spectrum Aeronautical has not only vowed to continue the aircraft program but yesterday revealed it also is developing a new midsize business twinjet called the Freedom S-40. The 2,050-pound-thrust GE Honda HF120, a derivative of the HondaJets HF118 engine, will power the all-composite midsize jet. The Freedom is Spectrums second model and is considerably larger than the $3.65 million Spectrum 33, which has been rebranded as the Independence S-33.
According to the Cardiff By The Sea, Calif.-based company, the $6.2 million Freedom will be able to fly at FL450, cruise at 435 knots and fly 2,200 nm, while only modestly sipping fuel. Other specifications include a 10,000-pound max takeoff weight, 4,500-pound empty weight and 5,000-pound useful load. The 10-seat Spectrum Freedom is scheduled to begin flight trials in mid-2009, with certification and deliveries planned for 2010. Meanwhile, Spectrum said its Independence S-33 is on track for FAA approval in mid-2008. A conforming example of the S-33 is expected to fly in August next year.
