Debra Draheim has gained the first single pilot type rating for the SJ30 since Emirates Investment Development Company (EIDC) acquired Emivest Aerospace Corporation last year.

Draheim is the pilot for the privately held company that will take delivery this summer of SJ30 serial number 008. "She is the first woman and mother to become single pilot type rated in the SJ30," says EIDC coo Joe Gullion.

Draheim, who has worked as a captain on the CRJ-200/700/900 with a regional airline says: "I really enjoy flying the SJ30. It is a swift and agile jet. I was surprised to see how easy it was to fly and am impressed with its speed, fuel efficiency, and capability. The entire team at Emivest provided their time and resources to help me learn everything I could to prepare for my single pilot check ride, and the training was excellent. It compared to an airline structure, except I could go down to the factory floor to examine the aircraft in different stages of development for hands-on training."

Gullion says the SJ30 has a range of 2,500 nautical miles and a cruise speed of Mach .83 (486 kts). "This single pilot certified jet operates at altitudes to 49,000 feet and maintains a 'sea level cabin' through 41,000 ft (12 psi differential)."

Paul Arrambide, chief flight instructor, adds: "Debbie has been a great student and exemplifies the quintessential SJ30 pilot with a good blend of the love of flying, the enthusiasm for performance, and safety always. She made history with Emivest."

Draheim holds a bachelor of science in maths from the US Naval Academy and a bachelor of science in aeronautical science from Embry-Riddle aeronautical university.