Aviation Technology Group Moving Forward On Schedule

Would you like to fly a fully aerobatic modern jet aircraft? Your dreams are getting closer to reality every day. Aviation Technology Group announced Tuesday its Javelin prototype is progressing on schedule for first flight this spring. ATG plans to unveil the aircraft at a rollout ceremony in late April.

"I'm very pleased with the progress. The program is coming along very well, and is meeting the milestones we've set," said Charlie Johnson, Executive Vice President of Operations, in an exclusive interview with ANN. He sees "nothing unique to be a roadblock" on the way to certification.

In the last few weeks, ATG has accomplished quite a bit. Mechanics installed the main landing gear and are working on the uplock mechanisms and actuator mounts for all of the gear. They've installed the nose wheel steering along with rudder pedals in both cockpits. Electricians and engineers bench tested avionics to be installed in the aircraft and integrated the Engine Instruments and Flight Test Data Display. Numerous other components are progressing, including fittings for the vertical and horizontal stabilizers, the cargo door latching system, fuel tanks, and more.

Johnson said, "People used to buy an old warbird to experience high performance flight. Now they'll have the option to purchase a safe high performance aircraft with modern aerodynamics, advanced avionics and efficient engines." The Javelin is fully aerobatic, designed to climb at 12,000 fpm, have a ceiling of 45,000 feet, and cruise at 0.925 Mach. More than 90 jets have been ordered at roughly $2.8 million each.

Johnson admits the airplane won't be for everyone. "It's a niche market." He expects some owners to use the Javelin for rapid personal transportation or for Sunday afternoon pleasure flights. Though high performance, the Javelin should land at speeds comparable to more conventional business jets.

As a former Air Force pilot, Johnson is personally excited about the aircraft. "The aircraft will be safe, have a full warranty, and low operating costs. It's a solid program with a great group of very intelligent people."

FMI: www.avtechgroup.com