Polish Aircraft Moves Closer To First Flight

The Polish company building what it says is the world's smallest single-engine jet has successfully run the aircraft's engine for the first time.

In an update posted to the Flaris website, but company says it has just finished adapting the fuselage of the Flaris LAR 1 airplane with the new Williams FJ33-5A engine. All of the work took place in their newly built factory in Podgórzyn (Lower Silesia). The new power unit has been started in assistance with specialists from Williams Int., and reportedly "works incredibly well."

Flaris said the milestone is significant for the whole private aviation sector. "Flaris is the world’s smallest single-engine jet which is able to take-off even from short, grass runways. Its conception, technical parameters and state-of-the-art technology surpass all the jets that have been produced so far. Such an ambitious project required an exceptional and unmatched new generation engine, which FJ33-5A engine undoubtedly is. It was developed at Walled Lake based Williams International Company (USA). It’s the most effective turbofan engine in the world. With 8,5 kN of thrust, it is incredibly efficient considering its 130 kg of dry weight," according to the post.

Last month, William’s CEO Gregg Williams, was informed about their great success in finalizing the certification process in U.S. The engine was approved by the FAA.

Meanwhile in Poland, a similar process is taking place. Flight tests are being arranged with the Polish Civil Aviation Authority (CAA). It also involves selecting an airport and agreeing a schedule of the test flights.

(Source: Flaris website. Image courtesy of Flaris)

FMI: http://www.flaris.pl/