Finally, Cheap Jet Time...if you're really brave

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It is my understanding they have already sold like 500 pre-orders for this kit.

http://www.sonexaircraft.com/subsonex/index.html

I also think I read recently that the manufacturer of the turbine used for this plane intends to develop a turbo prop intended for use in experimentals that would normally use a ~250hp piston. I think it was currently being tested on an RV-10
 
I think that's pretty cool! Kinda like the BD-5.

I'm curious what the idle to mil (I guess in this case, max) spool time is.
 
Last I heard, the FAA wants 1000 hours and 100 hours of jet time before issuing an LOA for the BD-5J.

From their website:

Pilot Qualifications: How to Become a SubSonex Pilot!

Because there is no Type Certificate available for the SubSonex, pilots will need a Letter of Authorization (LOA) from the FAA that is specific to the aircraft. Working commercial pilots operating jet or turboprop aircraft can easily qualify for the LOA, and small aircraft currency can be provided, if needed, via Sonex Aircraft’s T-Flight Transition Training Program. Pilots without previous jet experience can also qualify after obtaining the appropriate training, and all prospective SubSonex customers are invited to contact Sonex Aircraft representatives to discuss their flight qualifications.

http://www.sonexaircraft.com/subsonex/index.html
 
It's really cool to see a legit company like Sonex developing this. I saw it 2 years ago at Oshkosh, and laughed. It was cool to see fly, but it seemed like a 1 off dream. Surprisingly Sonex has continued work on it, and it seems like a true plane now. They said it has no real purpose other than just being cool. One day when I have money...
 
Last I heard, the FAA wants 1000 hours and 100 hours of jet time before issuing an LOA for the BD-5J.

IIRC, the requirements were something like that for my L-39 Experimental Aircraft Authorization, which is what I thought the old LOA became. Essentially, it was just a simple ATP style checkride with some UARs and stuff thrown in there.
 
I remember when they first unveiled it at Oshkosh, if it's the same powerplant company- the turbine was designed for RC planes.
 
From their website:

Pilot Qualifications: How to Become a SubSonex Pilot!

Because there is no Type Certificate available for the SubSonex, pilots will need a Letter of Authorization (LOA) from the FAA that is specific to the aircraft. Working commercial pilots operating jet or turboprop aircraft can easily qualify for the LOA, and small aircraft currency can be provided, if needed, via Sonex Aircraft’s T-Flight Transition Training Program. Pilots without previous jet experience can also qualify after obtaining the appropriate training, and all prospective SubSonex customers are invited to contact Sonex Aircraft representatives to discuss their flight qualifications.

http://www.sonexaircraft.com/subsonex/index.html

Or just take it down to Mexico and play with it there to build your time.
 
IIRC, the requirements were something like that for my L-39 Experimental Aircraft Authorization, which is what I thought the old LOA became. Essentially, it was just a simple ATP style checkride with some UARs and stuff thrown in there.
I recall something unusual for experimental jets. Did they have a very restrictive LOA until test hours were flown off then less restrictive limits incorporated into AC?
 
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