GROB Aerospace has announced the launch of the GROB SPn Utility Jet at the Paris Air Show. Combining the performance and passenger comfort of a light business jet with the operational versatility of a turboprop, GROB claims to have created a new class of "Utility Jet" aircraft.

The GROB SPn Utility Jet offers a superior range payload capability, excellent short field performance, a large cabin as well as cargo conversion capability. The first prototype is at the show and will fly for the first time in July.

GROB also announced today that, Swiss based, ExecuJet Aviation Group is appointed the exclusive world-wide sales distributor and maintenance provider. Full certification and first customer deliveries for GROB SPn Utility Jet is slated for the second quarter of 2007, and it will sell for EUR 5.8 million.

With six passengers, the aircraft will fly 1,800 nm. It holds a maximum payload of 2,491 lbs. Its carbon-fibre fuselage and wing combined with large wheels and reinforced landing gear permit regular operation on gravel or grass runways.

The aircraft has both a large cabin holding eight passenger seats. A large door and modular interior makes it suited for quick conversion for cargo or ambulance stretchers. The aircraft has Honeywell avionics and Williams engines, and may become the largest private jet to be certified for single-pilot operation.

FMI: www.grobspn.com