Test Runs Include Climb To FL280

Sierra Industries achieved another development milestone in their latest FJ44 re-engining program for the Citation II. The first flight was conducted at Sierra's Uvalde, TX modification center on September 19, and company officials tell ANN the flight quickly confirmed the modified aircraft's dramatically enhanced performance.

Taking off at approximately 5:20 pm, Sierra's Super II aircraft, piloted by CEO Mark Huffstutler and co-piloted by Jody Dorris, included two successful flights for a total of 1.5 hours.

"The first flight exceeded my own expectations -- the takeoff and climb performance were exhilarating! We saw 4,500 feet per minute climb before retracting the landing gear!" said Huffstutler. "I am especially proud of the fact that not only did we fly with all systems operational, but that the program has been conducted with complete FAA involvement, paving the way to rapid certification."

First flight of the Super II comes days after Sierra completed engine run tests on the aircraft, as ANN reported. The company reports customer commitments for the initial Super II production through early 2008.

The pilots checked aircraft systems, including landing gear retraction and pressurization. The first flight included an initial run to 5000 ft. and 200 KTAS, with all engine and FADEC performance parameters operating as designed. After completion of the first flight test cards, Huffstutler was cleared to climb to FL280, where the aircraft achieved a top cruise speed of 404 KTAS. The Super II will be certified to a maximum speed of 416 KTAS.

Super II FAA certification is expected by the end of the year. Sierra has produced some 40 FJ44 re-engined Citations since 2002, achieving over 15,000 flight hours to date.

FMI: www.sijet.com