The Cirrus Vision Jet, officially known as the Cirrus Vision SF50, is a single-engine, very light jet (VLJ) developed and manufactured by Cirrus Aircraft. It represents a significant milestone in aviation, particularly for Cirrus, as it transitions from producing piston-engine aircraft to jets.
Early 2000s: Cirrus Aircraft began conceptualizing a small, personal jet. The idea was to create an affordable, single-engine jet that could be flown by owner-pilots, filling a niche between high-performance piston aircraft and larger, more complex jets.
2006: Cirrus announced the “The-Jet” project, which was later renamed the Vision SF50. The goal was to make jet ownership more accessible to private pilots and to create an aircraft with a simpler, more intuitive flying experience.
July 2008: The first prototype of the Vision SF50 took its maiden flight. This prototype was crucial for testing various design elements and proving the feasibility of the single-engine, V-tail configuration.
2008-2014: The development faced several challenges, including financial difficulties. Cirrus was acquired by China Aviation Industry General Aircraft (CAIGA) in 2011, providing the necessary financial backing to continue the project.
2014: Cirrus unveiled a more refined version of the Vision Jet at the EAA AirVenture Oshkosh show. This version featured several improvements over the initial prototype, including enhanced aerodynamics and a more advanced avionics suite.
October 28, 2016: The Vision Jet received its type certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), making it the first single-engine personal jet to achieve this milestone.
December 2016: The first customer delivery of the Vision Jet marked the beginning of its entry into the market.
Engine and Performance: The Vision Jet is powered by a single Williams International FJ33-5A turbofan engine. It has a maximum cruise speed of approximately 311 knots (358 mph) and a range of about 1,275 nautical miles.
Design: The aircraft features a distinctive V-tail design and a large, panoramic windshield. Its cockpit is equipped with the Cirrus Perspective Touch by Garmin avionics suite, designed for ease of use.
Safety: One of the standout features of the Vision Jet is the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS), a whole-aircraft parachute system designed to lower the entire aircraft to the ground in case of an emergency.
Affordability: The Vision Jet was designed to be more affordable than other jets in its class, with a price point of around $2 million. This made it an attractive option for owner-pilots and small business operators.
Awards: The Vision Jet has received several accolades, including the 2017 Collier Trophy, awarded by the National Aeronautic Association for the greatest achievement in aeronautics or astronautics in America.
Sales: The Vision Jet has seen strong demand, with Cirrus expanding production to meet the growing number of orders.
G2 and G2+ Versions: In 2019, Cirrus introduced the G2 Vision Jet, featuring improvements in range, speed, and cabin comfort. The G2+ version, released in 2021, included further enhancements in avionics and connectivity, making the Vision Jet more capable and appealing to a broader market.
The Cirrus Vision Jet has made a significant impact on the aviation industry by providing an accessible and technologically advanced jet option for private pilots. Its development and success story illustrate the innovative spirit of Cirrus Aircraft and its commitment to making personal jet travel more attainable.
