Sonex Aircraft, the Wisconsin-based kit aircraft manufacturer, has flown a single-engine jet model called the SubSonex. Bob Carlton, who uses a jet-powered glider in his airshow act, flew the SubSonex for 14 minutes at Wittman Regional Airport in Oshkosh, Wis.
The flight concentrated on low-speed maneuvers including stalls. “It’s an exciting day for Sonex,” said SubSonex designer and Sonex Aircraft President John Monnett. “We have a test flight plan to expand the envelope of the aircraft, and we'll see where the project takes us from here.”
“It was great—flies like an airplane,” Carlton said after the flight. “The faster I went, the better it felt.” Carlton is best known for his airshow performances with the Super Salto jet sailplane, and is the developer of the Bonus Jet two-seat glider. The engines used on Carlton's aircraft are the same as that used on the SubSonex: the PBS TJ-100.
Sonex Aircraft makes Experimental kit aircraft, offers a series of light sport models, and makes the AeroVee engine, AeroInjector, and ancillary aviation products. The company is also experimenting with an electric aircraft.
Alton K. Marsh
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