'Helped Define The Light Jet Market In the Late 1980s'

SyberJet Aircraft (SJA) is saddened by the passing of Ed Swearingen - designer of the SJ30, aviation legend, and friend to many in the aviation world. Mr. Swearingen passed away on Thursday, May 15th due to complications from hip surgery that were compounded by Parkinson’s disease.  As creator and developer of the original SJ30 with his longtime friend Sam Williams of Williams International, Mr. Swearingen helped to define the light jet market in the late 1980s.  Mr. Swearingen’s career spanned much of the 20th century, from his humble beginnings as a mechanic to awards from the NBAA and induction into the Living Legends of Aviation and the Texas Aviation Hall of Fame.

“The industry will forever be influenced by Ed’s many contributions.  His tenacity and unrelenting passion for perfection ultimately led to certification of the SJ30, the best performing light business jet in the market today.  SyberJet hopes that its continued efforts will add to Ed’s legacy as we stay true to his philosophy of clean, efficient, aerodynamic designs coupled with light fuel efficient engines,” commented SyberJet’s President Chuck Taylor.

Mr. Swearingen’s many designs include piston-powered light aircraft through heavy transport category jets.  Ed’s designs are distinguished by well-balanced aerodynamics and efficient propulsion integration as he sought to obtain the highest level of performance and provide the best economy possible for his customers.  His quote is still featured on the SyberJet web site, “I thought if a light engine could be combined with advanced aerodynamic design, then you’d really have something unique.  The success of the SJ30 was about getting the best possible balance between the wing shape, engines, aerodynamics, and overall design.  Our performance isn’t magic; it’s simply well applied technology.” 

(Image provided by SyberJet. Ed Swearingen (center) at his induction into Texas Aviation Hall of Fame.)

FMI: www.syberjet.com