Announces Engine Change For S-33 Independence VLJ

"Faster." That's the common theme behind two recent announcements by Spectrum Aeronautical LLC, which tells ANN it continues to make strides in bringing two new business jets to market.

Spectrum tells ANN the company plans to accelerate the FAA Type Certification program for its upcoming S-40 "Freedom" light jet offering... while also making an engine change to the smaller S-33 "Independence" very-light jet.

Linden Blue, Chairman and founder of Spectrum, says the company recently decided to use the Williams FJ33-4A-19 engine on the S-33 Independence, instead of the previously announced FJ33-4A-15. Blue says the change will give the VLJ a substantial step up in thrust -- a combined 3,500 lbs, according to company specs -- as well as efficiency.

"The Independence already had the highest thrust to weight ratio of any business jet, and now it's even better," Blue said. "Also, the -19 incorporates Williams' latest technology, so with the additional thrust it has even better fuel specifics. We're enthusiastic about continuing to work with Williams on this exceptional airplane."

As for the larger S-40 Freedom (below), Spectrum says it is taking full advantage of opportunities in development of the Honda-powered light jet... and the program has gained momentum over the past year.

"We've made the decision to accelerate the Freedom's development and move its anticipated TC schedule up by about a year," said Spectrum President Austin Blue. Previously, Spectrum looked to certify the S-40 in 2010; now, the company is targeting a TC in 2009, in line with the anticipated certification date for the HF120 engine.

FMI: www.spectrum.aero