Very Light Jets (VLJs) are dominating discourse on aviation and the world is waiting to see how things play out in the USA on this subject. We present a brief look at some of the most pressing issues
What are these "new" planes called Very Light Jets? NBAA defines Very Light Jets (VLJs), as "Jet aircraft weighing 10,000 pounds or less (a distinction from the traditional definition of large aircraft as more than 12,500 pounds and light aircraft as 12,500 pounds or less) and certified for single pilot operations. These aircraft will possess at least some of the following features: (1) advanced cockpit automation, such as moving map GPS and multi-function displays; (2) automated engine and systems management; and (3) integrated autoflight, autopilot and flight-guidance systems." The definition is from the National Business Aircraft Association Training Guidelines for Single Pilot Operations of Very Light Jets and Technically Advanced Aircraft.
Where did Very Light Jets come from? They were spawned by the NASA lead Small Aircraft Transportation System or SATS program. This innovative initiative aims to provide safe air travel in all weather, in new single-pilot aircraft, with advanced navigation systems. SATS proposed the utilization of 5400 smaller airports in the US so we could enjoy point-to-point travel in modern aircraft at affordable prices.
SATS observed that 75 percent of people and cargo pass through 29 hubs which were over-crowded. By using the public airports accessible to almost everyone in the US instead of the hubs, the program promised many advantages:
- Separation and sequencing of multiple aircraft operating at airports without ground based radar and communications systems resulting in higher system traffic volume.
- Safer aircraft takeoff and landing operations in poor weather at minimally equipped airports and lower minimums for operations because of advanced avionics.
- Make more single-pilot operations possible with improved technology.
- Incorporate large numbers of small aircraft into the National Airspace System for better airspace utilization.
