Stratos 714 VLJ completes inaugural flight

The inaugural flight of the Stratos 714 Very Light Jet (VLJ) was completed successfully on Nov. 21, 2016. With Dave Morss at the controls, the four seat, personal jet aircraft was launched for a 10-minute flight to verify general stability and systems operation. This flight's maximum speed was limited to 128kts at an altitude of 3,700ft AGL with the flaps at 24° and the gear extended for the duration. Morss was satisfied with the overall handling and provided the development team with useful feedback.

Stratos will continue with a vigorous flight test program to explore the aircraft's flight envelope with expectations of achieving a cruise speed of more than 400kts and a range of 1,500nm. 

“After years of development, the first flight was a very exciting event for the whole team,” said Michael Lemaire, CEO of Stratos Aircraft. “We invested the time and effort in the initial design and construction phases to assure that this proof of concept aircraft would ease the path to certification. After flight testing is complete, we will pursue a type certificate. We could shave off a considerable amount of certification time and start producing finished aircraft with additional investment, of course.”

Kevin Jordan, chief sales officer adds: “At this time, we are not taking deposits or orders but we have made it possible for interested parties to register on our website for airplane availability updates and investment opportunities.”

Stratos is planning a product introduction at EAA’s AirVenture 2017.

“We believe that the Stratos 714 will provide a very efficient and fast ride for the owner/operator who wants to transport his family, several friends, or colleagues in comfort at flight level 410,” said Carsten Sundin, the CTO.

Stratos 714 specifications
Seating: 4
Type of Certification: FAR 23,Single pilot, VFR day/night, IFR, Known icing conditions
Propulsion: Pratt & Whitney Canada JT15D-5
Takeoff thrust: 2,900 lb (12.9kN)
Height: 9.8ft (3.0m)
Wing span: 40.5ft (12.3m)
Length: 35.8ft (10.9m)
Max cruise (at 30,000ft/9,144m): 415kts (769km/h)
Service ceiling: 41,000ft (12,500m)
Range with 4 occupants (NBAA IFR): 1,500nm (2,779km)