With the installation of its data collection system now complete, Sino Swearingen Aircraft Corporation’s first production prototype SJ30-2 has begun the long road leading to first FAA and then JAA type certification.

Commanded by newly-appointed chief flight test pilot Carroll Beeler and assisted by test pilot Chuck Walls, the SJ30-2 recorded more than 20 flight hours during May, bringing its total flight time to 32.7 hours. 

Early in June, the aircraft was scheduled for a series of ground tests, including being loaded in a tilt rig to establish unusable fuel limitations, as well as to establish overall proper functioning of the fuel system throughout the burn sequence. 

With the resumption of flight activity in mid-June, the aeroplane is scheduled to perform airspeed calibration tests, and additional performance, stability and control tests in various configurations and loadings. Two additional SJ30-2 aircraft are scheduled to join the flight test programme early in 2002 to support completion of certification in the third quarter of 2002. First deliveries are anticipated in the first quarter of 2003.