Flexjet Signs Firm Order for Aerion Supersonic Business Jet

Aerion Corp., a leader in supersonic technology, has received a firm order from Flexjet for 20 of Aerion's AS2 aircraft, which will be the first commercially available supersonic business jet.

The Aerion AS2 business jet has a top speed of Mach 1.5, which is 67% faster than the top cruise speeds of current or anticipated long-range subsonic jets.

Carrying eight to twelve passengers, the AS2 has an intercontinental-capable range of 4,750 nautical miles at supersonic speed, saving three hours across the Atlantic versus subsonic aircraft and more than six hours on longer trans-Pacific routes.

The three-engine jet, now under development by Aerion in collaboration with Airbus, is scheduled to make its first flight in 2021 with the aim of entering service in 2023.

"Throughout its history, Flexjet has been on the leading edge of aviation technology, introducing advanced performance to our owners. Today, we are proud to be at the forefront of the next revolution in business jets, supersonic travel. We are pleased to be the first fleet purchaser of the Aerion AS2 and to be able to offer supersonic, intercontinental flight capabilities to our Owners," said Flexjet Chairman, Kenn Ricci. "We have examined Aerion's technology and the AS2's remarkable performance capabilities, and see them as potential game-changers for business travel. Aerion and Airbus Group are moving forward impressively with the AS2's development."

Aerion and Flexjet will work together to design the interiors for the AS2, continuing the tradition of premium interiors such as those in Flexjet's recently launched Red Label fleet.

Flexjet anticipates that many customers will, through its innovative Global Access program, use the AS2 in combination with other large-cabin Flexjet aircraft, taking advantage of the AS2's speed to meet especially demanding travel schedules, such as intercontinental round trips in a single day.

"Kenn Ricci, and all of the Directional Aviation companies he oversees, have proven themselves time and again to be industry leaders and innovators," said Aerion Chairman, Robert Bass. "We share a passion for performance and for revolutionizing business aviation. This is indeed the beginning of a great relationship between our companies. I want to thank Kenn for his vision and his confidence in Aerion."

See also: Future of Air Travel - HD Video Interview with President of SITA Asia Pacific.