Sonex Aircraft LLC gave Kitplanes Editor in Chief Paul Dye the opportunity to be the first independent pilot to fly and evaluate the Subsonex JSX-2 personal jet yesterday. The flight in the single-seat jet followed previous training and rating in the BonusJet sailplane operated for transition training purposes by airshow pilot Bob Carlton of Desert Aerospace in Moriarty, NM. Preparations for the Subsonex flight included special high-drag approaches in the Bonusjet, and the flight in the Subsonex followed immediately afterward.
Paul in the SubSonex Cockpit
Three flights in the Subsonex were conducted, the first for familiarization and the second two for evaluation and a type rating check ride. Dye reports that the airplane is “a blast to fly!” He adds, ” It accelerates well and once you’re off, with the gear in the wells, the ride is smooth and quiet. The cockpit is comfortable, and response to the side stick control is excellent. It has plenty of fuel onboard for an enjoyable flight without having to watch the gauge constantly, and the ability to climb quickly out of the airport environment allows for maximum enjoyment.”
SubSonex Fly-By (Photo: Sonex Aircraft)
The Subsonex is the latest kit aircraft from Sonex Aircraft LLC of Oshkosh, WI. It is powered by the PBS TJ-100 turbojet engine which produces 247 lbs of thrust at full throttle and includes FADEC for simple operation by the pilot. It is available in a super-quick-build form and kits are shipping at this time.
Watch for a full report in an upcoming issue of Kitplanes Magazine!
The first SubSonex Quick Build Kit was shipped February 12, 2015. Kit shown here with assembled fuselage and wings with kit boxes, ready to load into the optional SubSonex trailer.
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