FAA Certification Tests of Reduced Vertical Separation Minimums Equipment in Lear 20 Series, Certain Lear 25D Models

Butler National Corporation has completed for FAA certification of RVSM Equipment in Lear 20 series aircraft, and the Non-Group RVSM approval of Learjet 25D-330. This is an important milestone in the certification of older Learjets to operate in FAA approved RVSM airspace. Extremely tight tolerances were recorded during RVSM testing, and the initial results appear to be well within the parameters established by the FAA for RVSM certification. The Rosemount Pitot Static Probes, IS&S/Avcon Altimeters and Avcon Autopilot Interface Unit work extremely well together.

Several weeks are required to reduce and analyze the flight data, complete the various supplements and reports, and submit the required information to the FAA. Group Certification flights should commence in July after the FAA has reviewed and approved all of the submitted documentation, and issued the RVSM Equipment STC and Non-Group RVSM STC.

Avcon and BizJet joined forces last fall to provide a cost-effective RVSM solution for Lear 20 series aircraft. As part of the agreement with BizJet, Avcon dedicated its Lear 25D (S/N 330) to the RVSM project to obtain the multiple use STC for the installation of the RVSM Equipment. It also served as the first RVSM group approval aircraft, and has been used for all the FAA flight-testing.

How much?

Avcon and BizJet have established an Introductory RVSM Price of $149,500 for the first 10 units, a savings of 10%. Additional incentives for Group Approval Launch Customers are also available. The Introductory RVSM Price includes installation of RVSM equipment and a functional test flight of the RVSM system after installation. Order positions are scheduled after receipt of a Purchase Order and $10,000 slot deposit.

Anything else you should know?

In addition to the RVSM cost, the JET FC-110 autopilot components and pitch servo need to be inspected, calibrated and/or repaired by L-3 Communications (new owner of the JET Autopilot) while the aircraft is being modified with RVSM equipment. The autopilot inspection/repairs can average anywhere from a few hundred to a few thousand dollars, depending on the condition of the various autopilot components. Since the inspection/repair cost cannot be accurately estimated, this cost is not included in the $149,500 Introductory RVSM price.

FMI: www.butlernational.com