GROB SPn Flight Tests Re-Affirm Key Performance Specifications
As part of its strategy to provide customers with state of the art systems and ease of operation, GROB Aerospace announced today a significant enhancement to the GROB SPn light jet. Teaming with Honeywell, an enhanced version of the Honeywell APEX avionics system will now be offered. Additionally several enhancements to it's the jet have been announced that are all immediately, and are designed to increase comfort for both passengers and pilots. Customers can now choose to configure their aircraft with a new six seat Executive interior configuration which includes a full lavatory and galley. As more options they can now purchase both an auxiliary power unit (APU), and an enhanced vision system (EVS), which give pilots greater landing visibility at night or in weather.
The enhanced Honeywell APEX system
By enhancing the APEX system, which has been the avionics suite since program launch, GROB and Honeywell are now providing the technology to further reduce pilot workload and provide a more complete platform for future avionics upgrades and options. Now, the enhanced APEX provides far greater integration. Avionics systems already featured on the GROB SPn, such as TCAS II, EGPWS, weather radar and other functions will continue to operate via the user friendly APEX controls, but with more ease and reliability. In addition, the enhanced APEX has greater software processing power to allow for optional equipment such as enhanced vision system (EVS) and future options, such as auto-throttle (AT), emergency decent mode (EDM), and electronic flight bag (EFD), among others. By leveraging the architecture of the already certified and fully integrated Primus EPIC in its design, Honeywell has enabled the enhanced APEX to easily accommodate future upgrades and installation of new software. The enhanced APEX system will be available immediately for all customer deliveries at no extra cost, even those who purchased their GROB SPn prior to this announcement.
Flight tests successful – Landing Distance even improved
The GROB SPn light jet has successfully completed testing of major flight envelope parameters. Results validate that the aircraft is meeting key performance specifications announced at program launch during the 2005 Paris Air Show. With a second test prototype set to enter service in July and a third aircraft's entry into service planned for Q1 2007, the GROB SPn heads toward to the next stages of testing required for FAA and EASA certification in 2007. Since first flight of the original prototype in July 2005, the emphasis of flight testing has been on performance, systems development and flight envelope expansion. Some of the most important tests covered so far have been field performance, stalls, icing shapes, flying to 35,000 ft., and maximum speed (Vmo). In each, case GROB has been extremely satisfied with results which have met estimates calculated prior to first flight. A notable achievement is an improved landing distance at maximum weight, which is now reduced by almost ten percent to 2670 ft./814 m. Furthermore, tests confirm that no major modifications to the airframe configuration are required to achieve certification.
Test emphasis now moves to systems validation where the entry into service of the second prototype in July will allow for testing of production avionics, environmental control, anti-icing, and other systems. Lastly, a fully-equipped pre-production aircraft will enter service at the beginning of 2007 and will be used to complete final certification and reliability testing. It will be fitted with a full interior and major avionics options.
New Executive interior provides large seats and full functionality
The new Executive cabin configuration comprises four 18 inch (46 cm) single club seats plus two front facing seats located aft. All seats will have adjustable arm and head rests, can be comfortably reclined, rotated sideways as well as moved forward and aft. The cabin is outfitted with four fold-out tables, six 110 volt outlets for laptops or for other electronic devices, and six passenger activated LED lights. Headphone jacks in each armrest allow for installation of optional entertainment equipment. Customers will have the choice to locate the toilet or the galley either front or aft in the cabin. No matter which location they choose, the toilet consists of a vanity unit comprising a cold water faucet, storage cabinet, illuminated mirror, coat hook and an 110V power outlet. Similarly, the large galley has stowage capacity to accommodate light catering, and is pre-designed to allow for easy installation of optional electrical devices such as a coffee maker, oven or microwave.
EVS and APU increase operational flexibility
The new APU, not normally available for an aircraft of this size, will provide ground power for engine starting, air-conditioning, and entertainment equipment, among others. It will also be certified for in flight operation. The new EVS option, manufactured by Kollsman Inc., will be fully integrated with APEX avionics and display screens. Currently available only on bigger business jets, the Kollsman EVS combines IR technology with video imaging software. Both the APU and EVS are available immediately for customer deliveries starting in Q3 2008.
GROB SPn combines jet-performance and comfort with the operating flexibility of a turboprop
With six passengers and one pilot, the GROB SPn will fly an impressive 1,800 nm (3334 km). It holds a maximum payload of 2,491 lbs (1130 kg) which substantially exceeds any business jet below midsize. Beyond impressive range and payload capabilities, the GROB SPSPn has a Balanced Field Length (BFL) of 3,000 feet (914 m). It is specifically designed for hassle free regular operation on "unimproved" runways which are usually the exclusive domain of turboprops and are often comprised of gravel or grass surfaces.
SOURCE: GROB Aerospace