{{short description|Very light business jet}} {{redirect|SF50|the US government form|Standard Form 50}} {{Use dmy dates|date=April 2021}} {{Use American English|date=April 2021}} {{Infobox aircraft | name = Vision SF50 | image = File:Cirrus Vision SF50 N124MW cn 0009 (28664083278).jpg | caption = The SF50 is a small business jet with a single aft-mounted turbofan, here with gear and flaps extended. | type = Very light jet | manufacturer = Cirrus Aircraft | designer = | first_flight = First prototype: 3 July 2008<br />Conforming prototype: 24 March 2014<br />First production: 5 May 2016 | retired = | national_origin = United States | status = In production | primary_user = | more_users = | produced = December 2016–present | number_built = 721 delivered (as of December 2025)<ref name=QuarterlyReportGAMA>{{cite web|title=Quarterly Shipments and Billings – GAMA|url=https://gama.aero/facts-and-statistics/quarterly-shipments-and-billings/|website=gama.aero|access-date=2026-02-19|publication-date=}}</ref> | variants = }}
The '''Cirrus Vision SF50''', also known as the '''Vision Jet''', is a single-engine very light jet designed and produced by Cirrus Aircraft of Duluth, Minnesota, United States.
After receiving deposits starting in 2006, Cirrus unveiled an aircraft mock-up on 28 June 2007 and a prototype on 26 June 2008. It made its maiden flight on 3 July 2008. Development slowed in 2009 due to lack of funding. In 2011, Cirrus was bought by CAIGA, a Chinese enterprise that funded the project a year later. The first conforming prototype subsequently flew on 24 March 2014, followed by two other prototypes that same year. The test flying program resulted in the US Federal Aviation Administration awarding a type certificate on 28 October 2016. Deliveries started on 19 December 2016, and by July 2020, 200 jets had been delivered. It has been the world's best-selling business jet every year since 2018.
Powered by a Williams FJ33 turbofan, the all-carbon fiber, low-wing, seven-seat Vision SF50 is pressurized, cruises at {{convert|300|kn}} and has a range of over {{convert|1,200|nmi}}. For emergency uses, it has both a whole-airframe ballistic parachute and autoland system.
Reviews have compared its performance to high-performance single-turboprop aircraft. In 2018, the Vision Jet was awarded the Collier Trophy for the "greatest achievement in aeronautics or astronautics in America" during the preceding year, being the first certified single-engine civilian jet.
==Development== [[File:Mehling Mary Cirrus N94CM RSideFront FLAirMuse 29Aug09 (14597694984).jpg|thumb|The Vision SF50 was inspired by Cirrus' first model, the 1988 pusher prop homebuilt VK-30 (pictured),<ref name=Barrons2016sep>{{cite web|url=https://www.barrons.com/articles/the-2-million-personal-jet-1473450883|title=The $2 Million Personal Jet|work= Barron's|last=Huber|first=Mark|date=September 2016}}</ref> from which a turboprop prototype was developed, the ST-50.<ref name=BJT2016aug>{{cite news |url= https://www.bjtonline.com/business-jet-news/cirruss-vision-sf50 |title= Cirrus's Vision SF50 |author= Mark Huber |work= Business Jet Traveler |date= August 2016}}</ref>]]
===Naming=== From June 2006 to July 2008, the design was developed under the project name "The Jet",<ref name="Avweb22May08">{{cite web |url= http://www.avweb.com/news/ebace/EBACE2008_Cirrus_TheJet_Update_Photos_197948-1.html |title= Cirrus Updates Jet Program, Shows Pictures |date= 2008-05-22 |author= Russ Niles |access-date= 23 May 2008 |archive-date= 26 May 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080526080559/http://www.avweb.com/news/ebace/EBACE2008_Cirrus_TheJet_Update_Photos_197948-1.html |url-status= dead }}</ref> or "The-Jet by Cirrus".<ref name=Ain14nov2006/> On 9 July 2008, Cirrus announced the marketing name of "Vision SJ50", with "V" for the V-tail and "SJ" for "single-jet".<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/news/2260417-cirrus-jet-renamed |title= Cirrus jet renamed |date= Jul 9, 2008 |work= Duluth News Tribune |author= Paul Passi }}</ref> By March 2009, the aircraft was re-designated "Vision SF50", as it uses a single-fanjet engine.<ref name="SFbrochure">{{cite web |url= https://cirrusaircraft.com/vision/specifications.pdf?popup=true |title= Cirrus Vision SF50 Specifications |publisher= Cirrus Aircraft |url-status= dead|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090320061220/https://cirrusaircraft.com/vision/specifications.pdf?popup=true|archive-date=March 20, 2009}}</ref> By April 2016, Cirrus was calling it the "Vision Jet"<ref name="Brochure">{{cite web |url= https://cirrusaircraft.com/wp-content/uploads/2016/04/Cirrus-Vision-Jet-Digital-Brochure-2016.pdf |title= Vision Jet Brochure |publisher= Cirrus Aircraft |date= April 2016}}</ref> and on 28 October 2016, it was certified by the FAA under the name "Model SF50".<ref name="A00018CH">{{cite web|url = http://rgl.faa.gov/Regulatory_and_Guidance_Library/rgMakeModel.nsf/0/c069b6b200760d488625839f0077dd2d/$FILE/A00018CH_Rev_4.pdf|title = Type Certificate Data Sheet No. A00018CH Rev 4 |publisher = Federal Aviation Administration |date = 4 February 2019}}</ref>
===Early development=== The company began initial development on the jet in 2003, led by Cirrus founders the Klapmeier brothers and their vice president of advanced development Mike Van Staagen, at an offsite Duluth, Minnesota location they called the "Moose Works”, a parody on Lockheed Martin's Advanced Development Programs dubbed the "Skunk Works".<ref name=Barrons2016sep/><ref name=BJT2016aug/><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.aopa.org/News-and-Video/All-News/2007/September/1/Waypoints-(9) |title=Waypoints - The Return of the V-Tail |publisher=AOPA |date=2007 |accessdate=2023-11-26}}</ref>
The jet was announced by Cirrus in June 2006 at the Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association meeting.<ref name=Ain14nov2006>{{cite news|url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2006-11-14/cirrus-booth-tease-jet |title= Cirrus booth is a tease for 'The-jet' |author= Mary F. Silitch |work= AIN |date= November 14, 2006}}</ref> At the October 2006 NBAA Convention, Cirrus detailed its single jet program to solicit US$100,000 deposits from potential customers, targeting a price below $1 million and a 2010 certification, for a {{cvt|300|kn|km/h}} cruise speed around {{cvt|25,000|ft}} with a Williams FJ33 and a whole-airplane parachute recovery system.<ref>{{cite magazine |url= https://books.google.com/books?id=YkaU2LEA4WQC&pg=PA22 |title= Cirrus Reveals More Details on "The-Jet" |magazine= Flying |date= January 2007}}</ref> Cirrus described it as the "slowest, lowest, and cheapest jet available."<ref name="ANN12Apr07">{{cite web |url= https://www.aero-news.net/index.cfm?ContentBlockID=994a3bc4-32db-46a9-a6a2-1a12b3d78f78 |title= Cirrus Set To Unveil 'The-Jet' Mockup |work= Aero News Network |date= April 12, 2007}}</ref>
thumb|Original Vision Jet mock-up in July 2007 In early 2007 the company gave deposit holders a drawing of the aircraft in the form of a jigsaw puzzle, one piece at a time. On 27 June 2007, the puzzle was completed and the aircraft mock-up was unveiled the following day.<ref name="AvWeb19Apr07">{{cite web |url= http://www.avweb.com/news/snf/SunNFun2007_CirrusThe-Jet_JigsawPuzzle_195000-1.html |title= Cirrus 'the-jet' Image Emerges |accessdate= 2007-12-31 |last= Niles |first= Russ |date= April 2007 |archive-date= 7 September 2010 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100907211705/http://www.avweb.com/news/snf/SunNFun2007_CirrusThe-Jet_JigsawPuzzle_195000-1.html |url-status= dead }}</ref> Starting at this time it became described as a "personal jet".<ref name=AirportJournals1aug2007>{{cite web|url = http://airportjournals.com/the-jet-cirrus-introduces-its-new-personal-jet/|title = The-Jet—Cirrus Introduces Its New Personal Jet |date= 1 August 2007 |work= Airport Journals}}</ref>
In September the L-3 SmartDeck avionics package was selected for the jet development.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.avweb.com/news/nbaa/NBAA2007_CirrusDesign_L3CommunicationsSmartDeck_196234-1.html |title= L-3 SmartDeck Chosen for Cirrus Jet Prototype |date= September 27, 2007 |author= Russ Niles |work= AvWeb }}</ref> On 27 December, Cirrus Design leased a {{cvt|189000|sqft|m2}} former Northwest Airlines hangar at Duluth International Airport in which to build the design.<ref name="AvWeb31Dec07">{{cite web |url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/CirrusDesign_TheJet_Plant_DuluthMinnesota_196855-1.html |title= Cirrus Secures Jet Plant Space |last= Saini |first= Meredith |date= December 30, 2007 |work= AvWeb |access-date= 31 December 2007 |archive-date= 27 June 2009 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090627041745/http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/CirrusDesign_TheJet_Plant_DuluthMinnesota_196855-1.html |url-status= dead }}</ref>
By 22 May 2008, the company had 400 refundable deposits of US$100,000.<ref name="Avweb22May08"/> The prototype was first shown publicly at the annual Cirrus Owners and Pilots Association ''Cirrus Migration'' on 26 June 2008.<ref name="AvWeb27Jun08">{{cite web |url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/CirrusRollsOut_TheJet_198192-1.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080629054735/http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/CirrusRollsOut_TheJet_198192-1.html |url-status= dead |archive-date= 29 June 2008 |title= Cirrus Rolls Out 'The Jet' |work= AvWeb |last= Niles |first= Russ |date= June 27, 2008 }}</ref>
===Initial flight tests=== The Vision Jet was first flown on 3 July 2008 at the Duluth airport.<ref name="aero-news.net03Jul08">{{cite web |url= http://www.aero-news.net/subsite.cfm?do=main.textpost&id=1da26569-7ea2-4fc4-b150-001206f4e55c |title= N280CJ Sees Light Under ALL Its Wheels |work= Aero-news.net |date=July 3, 2008}}</ref><ref name="AvWeb03Jul08">{{cite web |url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Cirrus_TheJet_First_Flight_198239-1.html |title= Cirrus' The-Jet Flies, July 3 |work= AvWeb |last= Pew |first= Glenn |date= July 3, 2008 |access-date= 4 July 2008 |archive-date= 5 July 2008 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20080705172902/http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Cirrus_TheJet_First_Flight_198239-1.html |url-status= dead }}</ref><ref>{{cite video |url= https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8jM3V9J0XnI |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/8jM3V9J0XnI |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|title= Cirrus The-Jet First Flight |work= AVweb |date= Jul 3, 2008 |via= YouTube}}{{cbignore}}</ref> It was then flown at AirVenture Oshkosh later that month.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2008/july/30/cirrus-vision-sj50-quietly-greets-public |title= Cirrus Vision SJ50 quietly greets public |date= July 30, 2008 |author=Alton K. Marsh |work= AOPA }}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://airportjournals.com/rockets-racers-and-rockers-invade-airventure/|title= Rockets, Racers And Rockers Invade AirVenture |date=October 1, 2008 |work=Airport Journals}}</ref>
By 3 December, the prototype had flown 120 hours, exploring the whole center of gravity envelope, testing engine in-flight shut-down and restart and aerodynamic stall characteristics.<ref name="Avweb03Dec08">{{cite web|url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/CirrusVisionJetUpdate_199336-1.html|title= Cirrus Vision Jet Update |last= Grady|first= Mary |work= AVweb |date=December 3, 2008}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url= http://www.flyingmag.com/pilot-reports/jets/cirrus-vision-jet-gets-lighter|title= Cirrus Jet Gets Lighter|last= Goyer|first= Robert|work= Flying|date=March 10, 2009}}</ref> The right side door was replaced by an emergency egress hatch to save weight on production aircraft. Based on test flights and computer models, the aerodynamic design was modified to increase performance and improve the engine thrust angle. The production aircraft was planned to have a more pointed nose, larger belly section, redesigned wing-root fairing, reduced tail sweep and a larger or dual ventral fin.<ref name="Avweb03Dec08" />
The aircraft's payload was planned to be {{cvt|1,200 or 400|lb}} with full fuel, based on an expectation of owners often flying long trips solo.<ref name="Avweb03Dec08"/> Range was targeted for {{cvt|1100|nmi|km|0}} and maximum cruise speed for {{cvt|300|kn|km/h|0}}.<ref name="Avweb03Dec08"/> An FAA type certificate was to be applied for by mid-December 2008, with EASA certification delayed by uncertainty over positioning in the European market.<ref name="Avweb03Dec08" /><ref name=Flight5Dec2008>{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/cirrus-snubs-easa-over-vision-jet-certification-user-319803/ |title= Cirrus snubs EASA over Vision jet certification user fees |date= 5 Dec 2008 |author= John Croft |work= Flightglobal}}</ref> It was decided by the company that pilot training would be required in the aircraft type certificate, like the Eclipse 500.<ref name="Avweb03Dec08" /> However, this was not written into the final type certificate.<ref name="A00018CH"/> The aircraft's base price was US$1 million in 2008<ref name="Avweb03Dec08" /> and its equipped price was anticipated to be US$1.25 million for 2011 deliveries.<ref name=Flight5Dec2008/>
thumb|An early concept mock-up of the flightdeck
On 31 March 2009, Cirrus confirmed that the Garmin G1000 avionics had been selected for the SF50 production aircraft.<ref>{{cite press release |url= http://cirrusaircraft.com/about/news/presskit/press/CAGNRL-09.05%2003.31.09.pdf |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20100103091037/http://cirrusaircraft.com/about/news/presskit/press/CAGNRL-09.05%2003.31.09.pdf |url-status= dead |archive-date= January 3, 2010 |title= Cirrus Aircraft and Garmin Partner for Vision SF50 Avionics |date= March 31, 2009 |publisher= Cirrus Design }}</ref> In mid June 2009, L-3 Communications sued Cirrus for US$18M over the cancellation of its previously selected avionics.<ref name="AvWeb18Jun09">{{cite web|url= https://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/onthefly/OnTheFly_200580-1.html |title= On the Fly ... |work= AVweb |date=June 17, 2009}}</ref>
===Financing difficulties=== In 2009, during the height of the Great Recession, progress on the program slowed significantly. By the end of June, Cirrus co-founder and former CEO Alan Klapmeier proposed buying the project from the company and its major shareholder Arcapita, to speed up development and produce it under a new company, which would be advised by Merrill Lynch.<ref name="AvWeb26Jun09">{{cite web|url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/KlapmeierMakesPlayForCirrusJet_200623-1.html|title= Klapmeier Makes Play For Cirrus Jet |last= Niles|first= Russ |work= AVweb |date= June 26, 2009}}</ref><ref name="AvWeb27Jun09">{{cite web|url= http://www.avweb.com/podcast/podcast/AudioPodcast_BrentWouters_CirrusVisionJet_200619-1.html |title= The Future Of Cirrus's Jet |last= Niles|first= Russ |date=June 27, 2009}}</ref><ref name="AvWeb03Jul09">{{cite web|url= http://www.avweb.com/podcast/podcast/AudioPodcast_AlanKlapmeier_CirrusVisionSF50Jet_200668-1.html |title= Klapmeier Lays Out Jet Plans |last= Niles|first= Russ |work= AVweb |date=July 3, 2009}}</ref>
On 26 July, Alan's brother and fellow Cirrus co-founder Dale Klapmeier came out in support of his efforts and said that Alan was the only person Cirrus would consider letting take over the jet program.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pcKXtSBJdaQ |archive-url=https://ghostarchive.org/varchive/youtube/20211213/pcKXtSBJdaQ |archive-date=2021-12-13 |url-status=live|title=Dale Klapmeier on the Cirrus Vision Jet at AirVenture 2009|publisher=YouTube |date=2009 |accessdate=2019-02-22}}{{cbignore}}</ref> Cirrus stated that financing the project was necessary to complete certification and commence production, either at the company or with Alan Klapmeier.<ref name="AvWeb26Jul09">{{cite web|url= http://www.avweb.com/news/airventure/EAAAirVenture2009_CirrusVisionJet_200813-1.html |title= Cirrus On The Vision Jet: "We Will Get It Done" |last= Grady|first= Mary |work= AVweb |date=July 26, 2009}}</ref> However, on 31 July, Alan announced that the offer did not meet Arcapita's or Cirrus’ expectations.<ref name="AvWeb31Jul09A">{{cite web |url= http://www.avweb.com/news/airventure/EAAAirVenture2009_AlanKlapmeier_CirrusSF50VisionJet_200890-1.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090804080745/http://www.avweb.com/news/airventure/EAAAirVenture2009_AlanKlapmeier_CirrusSF50VisionJet_200890-1.html |url-status= dead |archive-date= 4 August 2009 |title= Klapmeier Jet Deal Collapses |last= Niles |first= Russ |work= AVweb |date= July 31, 2009 }}</ref><ref name="AvWeb31Jul09B">{{cite web |url= http://www.avweb.com/news/airventure/EAAAirVenture2009_CirrusVisionJet_200892-1.html |title= Cirrus Says More Jet Talks Possible |last= Niles |first= Russ |work= AVweb |date=July 31, 2009}}</ref> In August, he left the company while Dale remained, effectively ending the formal 25-year business partnership between the Klapmeier brothers.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/content/creator-and-former-ceo-cirrus-leaves-company |title= Creator and former CEO of Cirrus leaves the company |work= Duluth News Tribune |date= August 23, 2009 |access-date= 8 March 2019 |archive-date= 23 September 2015 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20150923221139/http://www.duluthnewstribune.com/content/creator-and-former-ceo-cirrus-leaves-company |url-status= dead }}</ref>
By July 2009, 200 hours of flight tests had been completed and the resulting design changes had been incorporated, including an X-tail, simpler and lighter flaps, and handling changes to induce a pitch up when applying thrust.{{citation needed|date=March 2019}} Although some deposits had been refunded during the economic recession, Cirrus still had nearly 400 orders and anticipated first deliveries in 2012, subject to capital funding.<ref name="AvWeb26Jul09"/> On 2 September, Cirrus announced its price: US$1.39M for deposit holders, equipped similar to a Cirrus SR22 GTS, US$1.55M with a US$100,000 deposit before the end of the year, and US$1.72M after that, with a US$50,000 deposit.<ref name="AvWeb02Sep09">{{cite web|url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/CirrusSetsIntroPriceForVisionJet_201098-1.html |title= Cirrus Sets $1.39 Million Intro Price For Vision Jet |last= Grady|first= Mary |work= AVweb |date=September 2, 2009}}</ref><ref name="Cirrus2Sep2009">{{cite press release |url= http://news.cirrusaircraft.com/post/2009/09/02/CIRRUS-ANNOUNCES-2009-PRICING-FOR-REVOLUTIONARY-VISION-SF50-PERSONAL-JET.aspx |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090923111131/http://news.cirrusaircraft.com/post/2009/09/02/CIRRUS-ANNOUNCES-2009-PRICING-FOR-REVOLUTIONARY-VISION-SF50-PERSONAL-JET.aspx |url-status= dead |archive-date= September 23, 2009 |title= Cirrus Announces 2009 Pricing for Revolutionary Vision SF50 Personal Jet |publisher= Cirrus Aircraft |date= September 2, 2009 }}</ref> In November 2009, following additional test flights, development slowed again due to the lack of capital, delaying deliveries past 2012.<ref name="AvWeb05Nov09">{{cite web|url= http://www.avweb.com/news/aopa/AOPASummit2009_CirrusJetCapitalCrunch_201462-1.html|title= Cirrus Jet In Capital Crunch, But Progressing|last= Grady|first= Maty |work= AVweb |date=November 5, 2009}}</ref> Cirrus’ leased space in the ex-Northwest hangar in Duluth closed around this time as well, caused by shrinking sales.<ref>{{cite web|url = http://www.startribune.com/business/175334161.html|title = AAR to Service Airbus Jets in Duluth |work=shrinking sales |last = Phelps |first = David |date=October 22, 2012}}</ref>
thumb|SF50 prototype landing in 2010 By January 2010, the prototype had accumulated 236 hours, while the certification and delivery timeline was reliant on cash flow, as 428 orders were backlogged and growing by one or two per week.<ref name="Avweb27Jan10">{{cite web|url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/CirrusUpdatesJetProgress_201918-1.html|title= Cirrus Updates Jet Progress |last= Grady|first= Mary|work= AVweb |date=January 27, 2010}}</ref> By early June, the then-US$1.72M jet had 431 orders, with deposits becoming non-refundable at the beginning of that year. A conforming prototype was expected to be completed by the end of 2010 and fly by the end of 2011, targeting a mid-2013 certification date, while developing the "high-risk" full-aircraft parachute system.<ref name="Avweb02Jun10">{{cite web|url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/CirrusMovingForwardWithVisionJet_202658-1.html|title= Cirrus Moving Forward With Vision Jet |last= Grady|first= Mary|work= AVweb |date=June 2, 2010}}</ref>
===CAIGA investment=== In April 2012, Cirrus's new owner CAIGA invested enough in the project to secure its development, previously estimated at $150 million.<ref name="Grady17Apr12">{{cite news|url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Report_CirrusReadyToMoveAheadWithJet_206546-1.html|title= Report: Cirrus Ready To Move Ahead With Jet|last= Grady|first= Mary|date= 17 April 2012| work= AVweb}}</ref> By July 2012, the prototype had flown 600 hours in almost 600 flights and the company was ready to build the composite construction tooling required for a conforming prototype, expected to fly in late 2013 for type certification testing.<ref name="Niles22Ju12">{{cite news|url= http://www.avweb.com/news/airventure/EAAAirVenture2012_Cirrus_Upbeat_Under_Chinese_207017-1.html|title= One Year Later: Cirrus Upbeat Under Chinese Ownership|last= Niles|first= Russ|date= 22 July 2012|work= AVweb|access-date= 24 July 2012|archive-date= 22 February 2013|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20130222082253/http://www.avweb.com/news/airventure/EAAAirVenture2012_Cirrus_Upbeat_Under_Chinese_207017-1.html|url-status= dead}}</ref>
By February 2013 the company was hiring staff to produce the aircraft, now priced at US$1.96M.<ref name="Pew20feb13">{{cite news|url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/cirrus_hiring_vision_jet_production_208204-1.html|title= Cirrus Hiring For Jet Production|last= Pew|first= Glenn|date= 15 February 2013| work= AVweb}}</ref> In April, the new prototype roll-out date was announced for 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/CAIGA_Acquisitions_Jet_Rollout_208558-1.html |title=Cirrus Owner Eyes 2013 Jet Rollout |work=Avweb |date= April 21, 2013 }}</ref> Certification flight testing was scheduled to start in 2014.<ref name="Pew27Jun13">{{cite news|url = http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/cirrus_vision_jet_sf50_production_autoclave_jobs_208921-1.html|title = Cirrus Readies For Vision Jet Production |last = Pew|first = Glenn|date = 27 June 2013| work = AVweb}}</ref> In October 2013, three test aircraft were under construction, the first deliveries were scheduled for 2015 and the order book now held 500 deposits.<ref>{{cite web|last=Bertorelli |first=Paul |url=http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Cirrus-SF50-VisionJet-Fast-Track-to-Production220749-1.html |title=Cirrus SF50 VisionJet: Fast Track to Production |work=Avweb |date=10 October 2013}}</ref> By then the first conforming aircraft was to fly in early 2014.<ref>{{cite magazine|magazine=Aviation Week & Space Technology|date=14 October 2013|page=69|title=In the pipeline|url=http://archive.aviationweek.com/issue/20131014#!&pid=68|url-access=subscription|author= Graham Warwick}}</ref>
===Final flight tests=== By February 2014, 800 hours of test flying had been completed.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/cirrus-poised-to-fly-first-vision-sf50-395314/ |title=Cirrus poised to fly first Vision SF50 |work= Flight Global |date= 29 Jan 2014 }}</ref> On 24 March 2014, the first conforming prototype flew.<ref name="Grady25Mar14">{{cite news|url = http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Cirrus-Flies-Final-Version-Of-Vision-Jet221663-1.html|title = Cirrus Flies Final Version Of Vision Jet |last = Grady|first = Mary|date = 24 March 2014| work = AVweb}}</ref> The prototype was displayed at the Oshkosh Airshow that summer.<ref>{{cite news |author= Kerry Lynch |url= http://aviationweek.com/blog/celebrating-old-and-new-cirrus |title= Celebrating the old and new at Cirrus |work= Aviation Week & Space Technology |date= 28 July 2014}}</ref> Pre-orders of the $1.96 million jet then numbered 550 and Cirrus intended to produce up to 125 aircraft per year.<ref>{{cite news |author= Matt Thurber |url= http://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2014-09-01/airventure-report-2014 |title= AirVenture Report: 2014 |work= AINonline |date= 1 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |last=Sarsfield |first=Kate |url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/cirrus-vision-sf50-on-course-for-2015-service-entry-403765/ |title=Cirrus Vision SF50 on course for 2015 service entry |work=Flightglobal |publisher=Reed Business Information |date=17 September 2014 }}</ref> The second conforming test aircraft flew in November 2014.<ref name=avweb3>{{cite web|last=Niles |first=Russ |url=http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Second-Cirrus-Test-Jet-Flies223157-1.html |title=Second Cirrus Test Jet Flies |publisher=Avweb |date=26 November 2014 }}</ref> The third and final conforming test aircraft made its first flight on 20 December 2014.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/cirrus-flies-third-and-final-sf50-vision-test-aircraft-407492/|title=Cirrus flies third and final SF50 Vision test aircraft |work=Flightglobal |date=29 December 2014}}</ref>
In February 2015 the city of Duluth, Minnesota committed US$6M and had asked the state of Minnesota to contribute US$4M to build a US$10M factory that would be leased to Cirrus to produce the jet, to avoid the company moving the manufacturing operation elsewhere.<ref name="Niles14Feb15">{{cite news|url = http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Cirrus-Eyes-Jet-Factory-At-Duluth-223560-1.html|title = Cirrus Eyes Jet Factory At Duluth |last = Niles|first = Russ|date = 14 February 2015| work = AVweb}}</ref> In April 2015, confident the certification would be on schedule and no modifications needed, Cirrus started production of the first of its 550 orders for the design.<ref name="Niles22Apr15">{{cite news|url = http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Cirrus-Jet-Production-Begins-223951-1.html|title = Cirrus Jet Production Begins |last = Niles|first = Russ|date = 22 April 2015| work = AVweb}}</ref> In September, the Cirrus Perspective Touch glass cockpit by Garmin was finalized, featuring one primary flight display and one multi-function display, with three smaller touchscreen controllers located underneath.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Garmin-Creates-Cirrus-Jet-Touchscreen-Panel-224845-1.html|title=Garmin Creates Cirrus Jet Touchscreen Panel|work=AVweb |author=Russ Niles|date= September 12, 2015}}</ref>
[[File:Cirrus Vision SF50 Jet, EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, July 2016.jpg|thumb|First production Vision SF50, displayed at the 2016 EAA AirVenture Oshkosh convention]] By January 2016, certification had been delayed from 2015 to the first half of 2016 due to in-flight ballistic parachute testing.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Cirrus-Plans-Jet-Deliveries-By-Q2-2016-225530-1.html|title=Cirrus Plans Jet Deliveries By Q2 2016|work=AVweb|date=January 16, 2016}}</ref> In March, it was announced that in-flight parachute deployment tests were not required by the Federal Aviation Administration for certification.<ref>{{cite web|last1=Namowitz|first1=Dan|title=FAA: Flight testing not required for Cirrus jet's parachute system|url=http://www.aopa.org/News-and-Video/All-News/2016/March/28/FAA-Flight-testing-not-required-for-Cirrus-jets-parachute-system|website=AOPA|date=28 March 2016}}</ref>
On 5 May 2016, the first production aircraft flew and certification was then forecast for June.<ref name=ProductionCirrusJet>{{cite web|url=http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Production-Cirrus-Jet-Flies-226239-1.html|title=Production Cirrus Jet Flies|work=AVweb|date=May 15, 2016}}</ref> The Williams FJ33-5A engine was approved by the FAA on 6 June 2016.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2016-06-07/faa-oks-williams-fj33-5a-turbofan |title= FAA OKs Williams FJ33-5A Turbofan |author= Chad Trautvetter |publisher= Aviation International News |date= June 7, 2016}}</ref> Certification was then planned for the end of the same month.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/analysis-getting-personal-with-single-engined-jets-427139/ |title= Getting personal with single-engined jets |work= Flight Global |date= 21 July 2016}}</ref> By July, the SF50 had over 600 orders, the four flight test aircraft had flown more than 1,700 hours and certification had been delayed to the fourth quarter of the year.<ref>{{cite web |url= https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2016-06-07/cirrus-jet-now-final-approach-faa-certification |title= Cirrus Jet Now on Final Approach to FAA Certification |author= Mark Huber |publisher= Aviation International News |date= June 7, 2016}}</ref>
On 28 October, after a ten-year development process marked with myriad technical and financial challenges, the SF50 earned its type certificate from the FAA.<ref name=AvWeb30oct2016>{{cite web|url=http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Cirrus-SF50-Personal-Jet-Getting-Ready-to-Ship-227222-1.html|title=Cirrus SF50 Certified: First Delivery in December|work=AVweb|last=Niles|first=Russ|date= 30 October 2016}}</ref> The design became the first civilian, single-engine jet to be type certified.<ref name=AOPA31oct2016>{{cite web |url= https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2016/october/31/cirrus-earns-vision-jet-certification |title= Cirrus Earns Vision Jet Certification |work= AOPA |date= Oct 31, 2016}}</ref>
===Production=== The first customer Vision SF50 was delivered on 19 December 2016, against 600 outstanding orders.<ref name=AVweb161219>{{cite web |url = http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Cirrus-Delivers-First-Jet-228234-1.html?omhide=true |title = Cirrus Delivers First Jet |last = Grady |first = Mary |work= AVweb |date = 19 December 2016}}</ref> The first customer delivery ceremony was held in the new $16 million, {{cvt|70,000|sqft}} finishing center in Duluth, where Cirrus employs more than 750 people.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.duluthnewstribune.com/business/4183198-cirrus-delivers-first-vision-jet-unveils-new-facility|title=Cirrus delivers first Vision jet, unveils new facility |date= 19 December 2016 |work= Duluth News Tribune}}</ref>
By April 2017, Cirrus planned to deliver 25 to 50 aircraft that year and 75 to 125 in 2018.<ref name="FlightGlobal:European">{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/cirrus-vision-jet-poised-for-european-validation-436307/ |title= Cirrus Vision Jet poised for European validation |date= Apr 18, 2017 |author= Kate Sarsfield |work= Flight Global}}</ref> A production certificate was awarded on 2 May, to produce more with no individual inspections.<ref>{{cite web|url = https://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Cirrus-Gets-Production-Certificate-For-Vision-Jet-228946-1.html|title = Cirrus Gets Production Certificate For Vision Jet|accessdate = 3 May 2017|last = Grady|first = Mary|work = AVweb|date = 2 May 2017}}</ref> As 15% of its orders are intended for the European market, Cirrus received EASA certification at the May 2017 EBACE.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/ebace-cirrus-vision-jet-secures-european-approval-437437/ |title= Cirrus Vision Jet secures European approval |date= 22 May 2017 |author= Kate Sarsfield |work= Flight Global}}</ref> A video of the Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) being tested in-flight with a piloted SF50 prototype was published by ''Business Insider'' in May 2017.<ref name=businessinsider26May2017>{{cite web |url= https://www.businessinsider.com/cirrus-vision-cheapest-private-jet-built-in-parachute-two-million-2017-5 |title=At under $2 million this is the cheapest private jet in the world |work=Business Insider |author1=Justin Gmoser |author2=Benjamin Zhang |date= 26 May 2017}}</ref> By July 2017, seven customer aircraft had been delivered and one per week were being produced.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/general-aviation/2017-07-25/cirrus-ramping-production |title= Cirrus Ramping Up Production |author= Mark Huber |date= July 25, 2017 |work= Aviation International News}}</ref>
On 19 December 2018, Dale Klapmeier announced that he would leave his position as CEO of the company in the first half of 2019.<ref>{{cite news |url= http://tcbmag.com/news/articles/2018/december/cirrus-aircraft-ceo-co-founder-dale-klapmeier-ste |title= Cirrus Aircraft CEO, Co-Founder Dale Klapmeier Stepping Down Next Year |last= Ostuni |first= Amanda |work= Twin Cities Business |date= 19 December 2018}}</ref> By the end of 2018, 88 aircraft had been delivered, including 63 that year, while 540 orders were backlogged.<ref name=Flight9jan2019/> Cirrus increased production to over 80 aircraft in 2019 and plans to produce 100 in 2020.<ref name=Flight9jan2019>{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/cirrus-certificates-second-generation-vision-jet-454893/ |title= Cirrus certificates second-generation Vision Jet |date= 9 Jan 2019 |author= Kate Sarsfield |work= Flight Global}}</ref><ref name=Cirrus19feb2019>{{cite press release |url= https://cirrusaircraft.com/cirrus-aircraft-delivers-record-year-fueled-by-vision-jet-growth/ |title= Cirrus Aircraft Delivers Record Year Fueled by Vision Jet Growth |publisher= Cirrus Aircraft |date= 19 February 2020}}</ref> By October 2019, the US market represented 85% of deliveries, but that was predicted to drop to 75% in 2020, as the number of international deliveries continues to grow.<ref name=Flight23oct2019>{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/vision-jet-duo-raise-awareness-of-cirrus-brand-461707/ |title= Vision Jet duo raise awareness of Cirrus brand |date= 23 Oct 2019 |author= Kate Sarsfield |work= Flightglobal}}</ref>
Since August 2020, Cirrus has offered an optional emergency autoland system by Garmin, which the company introduced in October 2019. It initiates at the push of a button and is built into the G3000 integrated avionics for the new G2 model. The system is the 3rd certified in general aviation (and 1st ever on a jet), along with the Piper M600<ref>{{cite web|url = https://www.avweb.com/multimedia/votw/garmins-new-emergency-autoland/|title = Garmin's New Emergency Autoland |last = Anglisano|first = Larry |work = AVweb|date = 30 October 2019}}</ref> and Socata TBM 940. Cirrus calls the technology "Safe Return".<ref>{{cite web |url = https://cirrusaircraft.com/totalsafety/ |title = Total Safety |accessdate = 30 October 2019 |publisher = Cirrus Aircraft |archive-date = 30 October 2019 |archive-url = https://web.archive.org/web/20191030212535/https://cirrusaircraft.com/totalsafety/ |url-status = dead }}</ref> Offered for $170,000 including extra equipment, it allows landing on runways over {{cvt|5,836|ft}}.<ref name="BCA30oct2019">{{cite news |url= https://aviationweek.com/business-aviation/flying-garmins-new-emergency-autoland |title= Flying Garmin's New Emergency Autoland |date= Oct 30, 2019 |author= Fred George |work= Business & Commercial Aviation}}</ref>
By 4 April 2023, 439 Vision Jets were on the US Federal Aviation Administration registry.<ref name="FAAReg">{{cite web|url = https://registry.faa.gov/aircraftinquiry/Search/MakeModelInquiry|title = Make / Model Inquiry|accessdate = 4 April 2022|author = Federal Aviation Administration|author-link = Federal Aviation Administration|date = 4 April 2022}}</ref>
As of December 2025, the Vision SF50 has been the most-delivered business jet every year since 2018.<ref name=RobbReport>{{cite news |url=https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/the-vision-jet-was-the-most-delivered-business-jet-in-2842456/|title= The Vision Jet Was the Most-Delivered Business Jet in 2018 |last= Seaton |first= M.D. |work= Robb Report |date= 25 February 2019}}</ref><ref name=GAMA2019>{{cite web|url=https://gama.aero/wp-content/uploads/GAMA_2019Databook_ForWebFinal-2020-02-19.pdf|title=2019 Databook|author=General Aviation Manufacturers Association|date=2020-02-19}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flyingmag.com/story/aircraft/2020-ga-shipments-fall-10-percent/|title=General Aviation Airplane Shipments Fall Off 10 Percent for 2020|author=Flying Magazine|date=2021-02-24}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.aviationpros.com/aircraft/business-general-aviation/press-release/21258101/cirrus-aircraft-cirrus-aircraft-delivers-top-performance-in-2021-and-grows-its-footprint|title=Cirrus Aircraft Delivers Top Performance in 2021 and Grows its Footprint|work=AviationPros.com|date=February 24, 2022}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/most-popular-business-jet-cirrus-jet-1234823799/ |title=The Most Popular Business Jet in the U.S. May Not Be What You Think|work=Robb Report|date=March 28, 2023}}</ref><ref name=QuarterlyReportGAMA/>
==Design== [[File:EBACE 2019, Le Grand-Saconnex (EB190470).jpg|thumb|Cirrus Vision SF50 with cabin door open, at the 2019 European Business Aviation Convention]] thumb|Rear view of the aircraft's V-tail and engine outlet thumb|Interior showing cabin seating
The Vision SF50 is a low-wing cantilever monoplane powered by a single Williams FJ33-4A-19 turbofan, producing {{cvt|1900|lbf|N}}, mounted above the rear fuselage. It has a V-tail and retractable tricycle landing gear. The design is made entirely of composite material, a first for a production jet. The enclosed cabin is 5.1 ft (1.56 m) wide and 4.1 ft (1.24 m) high. It can seat up to seven occupants.<ref name="A00018CH"/> The cockpit, second and third rows each seats two and an extra seat slides between the second and third row, but the third row is only large enough to accommodate children.<ref>{{cite news |last1=Valdes-Dapena |first1=Peter |title=I flew the newest personal jet. It costs $2 million, parachute included |url=https://money.cnn.com/2017/05/19/luxury/personal-jet/index.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170519180134/http://money.cnn.com/2017/05/19/luxury/personal-jet/index.html |url-status=dead |archive-date=19 May 2017 |accessdate=24 February 2020 |work=CNNMoney |date=19 May 2017}}</ref> It has a {{cvt|300|kn|km/h}} cruise speed.
Access to the cabin is through a clamshell door on the left hand side of the fuselage.<ref>{{cite web|title=Cirrus Debuts Final Interior for Vision Jet|url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2016-04-08/cirrus-debuts-final-interior-vision-jet|first=Amy|last=Laboda|date=8 April 2016}}</ref> The SF50 is designed for a life limit of 12,000 flight hours.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/oshkosh-cirrus-enters-final-stretch-of-sf50-testing-414828/|title=Oshkosh: Cirrus enters final stretch of SF50 testing|work=Flightglobal |date= 21 Jul 2015 }}</ref> This is not a type certification limit.<ref name="A00018CH"/> The SF50 is the first jet to come with a whole-aircraft ballistic parachute,<ref name=AOPA31oct2016/> the company's CAPS, deploying from the aircraft's nose.<ref name=AvWeb30oct2016/><ref name="Specs" />
The SF50 is intended to be a step-up aircraft for pilots who have flown the Cirrus SR20, SR22 and other high-performance light aircraft,<ref name="Specs">{{cite web |url= http://the-jet.com/pdf/specifications.pdf |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20090206035048/http://the-jet.com/pdf/specifications.pdf |url-status= dead |archive-date= 2009-02-06 |title= Cirrus Vision SJ50 |publisher= Cirrus Design}}</ref> and was developed initially for personal use and not for the corporate or air taxi industries.<ref name="Avweb03Dec08"/> However, by 2019, the jet was FAR part 135 approved for air taxi operators.<ref>{{cite news |url=https://www.flyingmag.com/cirrus-unveils-generation-2-sf50-vision-jet |title= Cirrus Unveils Generation 2 SF50 Vision Jet |author= Stephen Pope |work = Flying |date= January 2019|accessdate= 14 April 2019}}</ref>
Early versions were certified for {{convert|28000|ft|m|0|abbr=on}} and later ones to {{convert|31000|ft|m|0|abbr=on}}. The design has urethane deicing boots and an optional lavatory, a single-piece carbon shell will contain cabin pressurization and it should fit in a usual US {{cvt|40|ft}} Tee hangar.<ref name="A00018CH"/><ref name="Avweb27Jan10" />
The wing spar is made of pure pre-preg carbon fiber plies, cured in a high-pressure, high-temperature autoclave, while most of the other major airframe parts are made of low-pressure, low-temperature cured carbon fiber sandwich construction, around a honeycomb core, including hand layup of outer pre-preg carbon fiber plies. High-strength metal alloys are used for the landing gear and other concentrated stress areas, while the primary flight control surfaces and wing flaps are aluminum, with mechanical flight controls. The stall speed at MTOW with landing gear and flaps down is {{cvt|67|kn|km/h}} IAS, while the Vso is {{cvt|64|kn|km/h}} IAS at the {{cvt|5,550|lb}} max landing weight, with Vref at {{cvt|83|kn|km/h}} IAS or lower, similar to an SR22. The aircraft has a 14.7:1 glide ratio, allowing it to glide {{cvt|75|nmi|km}} from its FL 310 ceiling to sea level.<ref name=BCA28jan2019/>
In August 2020, the Vision SF50 received FAA approval for the installation of its Safe Return autoland system by Garmin, the first jet aircraft to do so.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2020-08-31/cirrus-garmin-nab-faa-nod-autoland-vision-jet |title=Cirrus, Garmin Nab FAA Nod for Autoland on Vision Jet |last=Lynch |first=Kerry |date=August 31, 2020 |website=AIN Online |publisher=The Convention News Company, Inc. |access-date=September 2, 2020 |quote= This marks the first jet aircraft to receive the nod for the Garmin Autoland technology}}</ref> The system is activated with a cabin-ceiling switch and will determine the nearest safe airport, navigate to it, complete a landing and stop, all without human input.<ref name="Cook31Aug20">{{cite web|url= https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/garmin-autoland-approved-in-cirrus-vision-jet/|title= Garmin Autoland Approved in Cirrus Vision Jet|access-date= 2 September 2020|last= Cook|first= Marc|work= AVweb|date= 31 August 2020|archive-url= https://archive.today/20200902135644/https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/garmin-autoland-approved-in-cirrus-vision-jet/?MailingID=438|archive-date= 2 September 2020|url-status= live}}</ref>
===Reviews===
''AVweb'' describes the Vision Jet as both a great airplane and a significant one by how well "the design resonates with the intended buyer". At FL270 and ISA +15 °C it cruises at {{cvt|270|knots|km/h|0}} and consumes {{cvt|57|gal/h|L/h|0}}.<ref name=AVweb20aug2017>{{cite web|url = https://www.avweb.com/blogs/insider/Cirrus-Nails-the-Jet-229521-1.html|title = Cirrus Nails The Jet|author= Paul Bertorelli|work = AVweb |date = 20 August 2017 |quote= If the measure of greatness isn’t defined by absolute speed, pure efficiency or herculean payload, but of how well the design resonates with the intended buyer, the Vision Jet is both a great airplane and a significant one.}}</ref> At the same FL270, ISA +15 °C, a review in Flightglobal reported a fuel consumption of {{cvt|59|gal/h|L/h|0}} at Mach 0.46, {{cvt|287|knots|km/h|0}} and {{cvt|45|gal/h|L/h|0}} at Mach 0.38 and a {{cvt|235|knots|km/h|0}} long-range cruise speed.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/flight-test-cirrus-vision-jet-440081/ |title= FLIGHT TEST: Cirrus Vision Jet |date= 22 Aug 2017 |author= Mike Gerzanics |work= Flightglobal}}</ref>
''Aviation Week & Space Technology'' notes Cirrus has succeeded in producing the “lowest, slowest and least expensive” jet and noted that high-lift airfoils emphasize low-speed performance over top-end speed with a turboprop-like V<sub>MO</sub> of {{cvt|250|knots|km/h|0}} IAS or a 0.53 {{abbr|M<sub>MO</sub>|maximum operating Mach}} and a FL280 ceiling. This review reported a {{cvt|68|gal|L|0}}/h - {{cvt|456|lb}}/h fuel burn at its {{cvt|307|knots|km/h}} TAS maximum cruise speed (at {{cvt|5,575|lb}}, FL280, ISA+6 °C) and {{cvt|49|gal|L|0}}/h fuel burn at {{cvt|270|knots|km/h|0}}. Like an early 1970s Citation 500, aerodynamic drag limits it to V<sub>MO</sub> in a {{cvt|300|-|500|ft/min|m/s}} descents, for which it is held at max continuous thrust, unlike most current jets.<ref name=AvWeek4jan2018/> The publication also states that the large wraparound windshields and sloping nose provide excellent forward visibility and a spacious cabin, although the engine noise is quite prominent, requiring active noise-cancelling headphones for all occupants. Approach speeds are reported to be comparable to the single-engine turboprops, but cruise and range are below some of them. The FJ33's FADEC lessens pilot workload, but changing thrust produces considerable pitch coupling, due to the engine's location.<ref name=AvWeek4jan2018>{{cite news |url= https://aviationweek.com/aviation-week-space-technology/pilot-report-cirrus-sf50-vision-jet |title= Pilot Report: Cirrus SF50 Vision Jet |date= Jan 4, 2018 |author= Fred George |work= Aviation Week & Space Technology |url-access= subscription}}</ref>
Aviation International News reported a {{cvt|60|gal|L|0}}/h fuel burn at {{cvt|293|knots|km/h}} TAS (FL280, ISA +12 °C). The author reported that it can carry two people and baggage over {{cvt|1,000|or|1,200|nmi|km}} at {{cvt|300|or|240|knots|km/h}} TAS (NBAA IFR range). Upgrading from a single-engine piston aircraft meant either a piston twin, like the Beechcraft Baron or Piper Seneca; a Piper Meridian, SOCATA TBM or Pilatus PC-12 high-performance single-engine turboprops; or a very light jet. The $2.3 million typically-equipped SF50 benefits from its operating simplicity and roomy cabin compared to the $2.25 million Piper M500/M600, the fast TBMs and the Epic E1000, or the nearly $5 million, larger capacity aircraft, such as the Pilatus PC-12 or Cessna Denali.<ref name=AINdec2017>{{cite news |url= https://www.ainonline.com/sites/default/files/pdf/ain_2017_pilot_report.pdf |title= Single-engine SF50 model carves new niche in the owner-flown category |author= Matt Thurber |date= December 2017 |work= AIN}}</ref>
===Awards=== In April 2018, the design was named the 2017 winner of the Robert J. Collier Trophy for the "greatest achievement in aeronautics or astronautics in America" in the past year. The trophy was awarded for "designing, certifying, and entering-into-service the Vision Jet — the world's first single-engine general aviation personal jet aircraft with a whole airframe parachute system".<ref name="Collier">{{cite web|url = https://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Collier-Trophy-Goes-To-Cirrus-Jet-230563-1.html|title = Collier Trophy Goes To Cirrus Jet|accessdate = 6 April 2018|last = Grady|first = Mary|work =AVweb |date = 4 April 2018}}</ref> Other accolades received by the aircraft include: the ''Flying'' Editors' Choice Award 2017,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.flyingmag.com/editors-choice-awards-2017 |title= Editors' Choice Award 2017 |work=Flying |date= 20 December 2017 |accessdate=April 7, 2018}}</ref> '':de:Fliegermagazin'' Best Plane of the Year 2017,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.fliegermagazin.de/news/detail.php?class=6&objectID=10983 |title=The Best in the Industry Awarded with the Flyer Magazine Award 2017. |work=Fliegermagazin |date= April 7, 2017 |accessdate=April 7, 2018}}</ref> ''Plane & Pilot'' Plane of the Year 2017,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/article/2017-planes-year/#.WslKBNPwYWo |title=2017 Planes Of The Year |work=Plane & Pilot |date= October 6, 2017 |accessdate=April 7, 2018}}</ref> ''Popular Science'' 100 Greatest Innovations of 2017,<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.popsci.com/best-of-whats-new-list-2017#page-30 |title= The 100 greatest innovations of 2017 |work=Popular Science |date=October 17, 2017 |accessdate=April 7, 2018}}</ref> ''Flying's'' Innovation Award 2018,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flyingmag.com/cirrus-vision-jet-wins-2018-flying-innovation-award |title= Cirrus Vision Jet Wins 2018 Flying Innovation Award |work=Flying |date= July 24, 2018 |accessdate=July 25, 2018}}</ref> and the 2023 Edison Awards Gold prize in Air Mobility.<ref>{{cite web|url= https://edisonawards.com/2023-winners-dev/| title= Edison Best New Products Awards 2023 Winners |work=Edison Awards |accessdate= May 6, 2023}}</ref>
==Operational history== On April 16, 2019, Cirrus issued a mandatory Service Bulletin to replace the angle of attack (AOA) vane within five flight hours after three reported incidents where stall warnings and stick shakers were activated by automated systems in normal flight.<!--ref name=AirInsight19apr2019--> After similar problems led to the Boeing 737 MAX groundings, the FAA felt that this was serious enough to issue an Airworthiness Directive grounding the entire SF50 fleet on April 18.<ref name=AirInsight19apr2019>{{cite news |url= https://airinsight.com/faa-grounds-cirrus-vision-jet/ |title= Daily Insight: Friday 19 April 2019: FAA Grounds Cirrus Vision Jet |date= April 19, 2019 |work= AirInsight}}</ref> Unlike the 737 MAX, the electronic stability control system in the Vision Jet could be overridden with pilot inputs, and all three reported incidents resulted in safe landings.<!--ref name=AOPA22apr2019/--> On April 22, Cirrus was shipping new corrected AOA hardware sensors to operators for replacement.<ref name=AOPA22apr2019>{{cite news |url= https://www.aopa.org/news-and-media/all-news/2019/april/22/faa-grounds-cirrus-vision-jets |title= FAA Grounds Cirrus Vision Jets |date= April 22, 2019 |work= AOPA}}</ref> The screws securing the potentiometer shaft to the AoA vane shaft were not properly torqued, and by May 2019, the fleet of over 100 had been returned to service.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/vision-jets-return-to-service-after-grounding-458353/ |title= Vision Jets return to service after grounding |date= 21 May 2019 |author= Kate Sarsfield |work= Flightglobal}}</ref>
Cirrus again issued a mandatory service bulletin on 7 February 2020 and the FAA grounded all SF50 jets on 14 February, after a cabin fire occurred on the ramp of Santa Monica Airport on 27 December 2019. Cirrus determined that the fire's probable cause came from one of the plane's 12 audio amplifier circuit cards overheating. No injuries were reported and the issue had already been addressed with 97% of the fleet of over 170 at the time of the grounding.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.flightglobal.com/business-aviation/cabin-fire-caused-cirrus-sf50-fleet-grounding/136789.article |title= Cabin fire caused Cirrus SF50 fleet grounding |author= Kate Sarsfield |date= 17 February 2020 |work= Flightglobal}}</ref>
==Variants== thumb|The 2019 G2 Vision Jet has a higher ceiling for improved speed and range, and updated avionics. thumb|2021 G2+ Cirrus Vision Jet ;G2 Vision Jet On January 8, 2019, the improved {{abbr|G2|Generation 2}} was announced, adding RVSM allowing a ceiling of {{cvt|31,000|ft}} and improving range to over {{cvt|1,200|nmi|km}}, or allowing {{cvt|150|lb}} more payload over {{cvt|800|nmi|km}}.<ref>{{cite press release |url= https://cirrusaircraft.com/cirrus-aircraft-unveils-generation-2-vision-jet/ |title= Cirrus Aircraft Unveils Generation 2 Vision Jet |publisher= Cirrus |date= 8 January 2019 |access-date= 9 January 2019 |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20190109110949/https://cirrusaircraft.com/cirrus-aircraft-unveils-generation-2-vision-jet/ |archive-date= 9 January 2019 |url-status= dead }}</ref> It is fitted with an autothrottle, an updated flight deck and upgrades to the aircraft cabin. The cruise speed is increased from {{cvt|304 to 311|kn|km/h}} and its base price is raised to $2.38 million, reaching $2.75 million with options.<ref name=AIN8jan2019>{{cite news |url= https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2019-01-08/cirrus-vision-jet-g2-certified |title= Cirrus Vision Jet G2 Certified |work= AIN online |date= 8 January 2019 |author= Matt Thurber}}</ref>
The second generation production starts with serial number 94. Cabin pressurization is raised from {{cvt|6.4 to 7.1|psi|bar}} and improved insulation cuts cabin noise by 3 dB. At FL 310, ISA and {{cvt|5,457|lb}}, fuel flow is {{cvt|60|gal|L}}/h at {{cvt|309|kn|km/h}} TAS.<ref name=BCA28jan2019>{{cite news |url= https://aviationweek.com/business-aviation/vision-jet-20-cirrus-makes-it-fly-higher-farther-and-quieter |title= Vision Jet 2.0: Cirrus Makes It Fly Higher, Farther And Quieter |date= Jan 28, 2019 |author= Fred George |work= Business & Commercial Aviation}}</ref>
;G2+ On July 20, 2021, Cirrus announced the G2+ variant of the Vision Jet, with a 20-percent increase in takeoff performance and Gogo Inflight WiFi. The model also has a slightly longer range and increased payload.<ref name=AVwebG2+>{{cite news|url=https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/cirrus-unveils-g2-vision-jet/ |title=Cirrus Unveils G2+ Vision Jet|date= July 20, 2021|work = AVweb}}</ref> In 2023, its equipped price was $3.25M.<ref>{{cite news |url= https://infogram.com/bca-table-2023-jets-1ho16vorwrp8x4n |title= Purchase planning handbook - Jets table |date= Second Quarter 2023 |work= Business & Commercial Aircraft}}</ref>
All current G2+ models and later G2 models include the Cirrus Safe Return emergency autoland system by Garmin.<ref name=AVwebG2+/><ref name=RobbReportG2>{{cite news |url=https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/cirrus-g2-vision-jet-most-popular-1234602832/|title= The Cirrus G2 Vision, the World's Most Popular Jet, Can Fly You Home With The Push of a Button |last= Bachmann |first= Daniel |work= Robb Report |date= 23 March 2021}}</ref>
;G3 Vision Jet On February 3rd, 2026, the company introduced the {{abbr|G3|Generation 3}} Vision Jet with a redesigned cabin including seating for six adults and one child, ATC–pilot datalink communications, improved taxi guidance, automatic database updates through the Cirrus IQ Pro app, and alerts-linked electronic checklists that notify the pilot about relevant procedures when cautions or warnings occur.
The G3 also includes new "Cirrus Spectra" wingtips with brighter landing lights and a distinctive halo effect, which are design elements that were first introduced on the SR series in 2017.<ref>{{cite news|url=https://www.aerotime.aero/articles/cirrus-vision-jet-g3-launch|title= Cirrus launches G3 Vision Jet featuring cabin, avionics upgrades|last=Pope |first=Stephen |work=AeroTime |date= 3 February 2026}}</ref>
==Operators== In July 2008, SATSair, an air taxi company that was 25% owned by Cirrus, ordered five Cirrus Vision SF50s, intending to add them to its fleet of Cirrus SR22 piston aircraft.<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.aviationweek.com/aw/generic/story_channel.jsp?channel=busav&id=news/SATS08018.xml |title= SATSair Will Order Cirrus Vision SJ50 |date= 2007-07-31 |author= George C. Larson |accessdate= 2008-08-06 }}</ref><ref name="AvWeb06Aug08">{{cite web|url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/CirrusSJ50VisionJetChosen_ForSATSairAirTaxiOperations_198552-1.html|title= Cirrus SJ50 Vision Jet Chosen For SATSair Air-Taxi Operations |accessdate= 2008-08-07|last= Grady|first= Mary|date=August 2008}}</ref> SATSair subsequently ceased operations on 24 October 2009, prior to taking delivery of any SF50s.<ref name="AvWeb24Oct09">{{cite web|url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/SATSAirShutsDown_201394-1.html|title= SATSAir Shuts Down|accessdate= 2010-01-13|last= Niles|first= Russ|date= October 2009|archive-date= 27 October 2009|archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20091027030340/http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/SATSAirShutsDown_201394-1.html|url-status= dead}}</ref> Florida-based charter company Verijet operated a fleet of ten G2 Vision Jets, at one point in 2021 having a total of 25 SF50s on order until ultimately filing for bankruptcy in 2025.<ref>{{cite web|url=https://robbreport.com/motors/aviation/heres-how-new-business-models-are-making-flights-easier-1234636978/|title=With Private Jets in Hot Demand, These 3 Aviation Upstarts Are Making It Easier to Take Flight|accessdate= 2022-01-06|website= Robb Report|last= Verdon|first= Michael|date= October 2021}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.flyingmag.com/verijet-files-for-bankruptcy/|title= Verijet Files for Bankruptcy|accessdate= 2025-10-17|website= Flying|date=October 13, 2025}}</ref>
Other air taxi operators have expressed an interest in potentially using the Vision SF50 and some industry experts have suggested that the jet could help revive the air taxi industry.<ref>{{cite news | url=https://aviationweek.com/nbaa-2015/air-taxi-plans-30-plane-cirrus-fleet-0 | title=Air Taxi Plans 30-Plane Cirrus Fleet | date=Nov 19, 2015 | magazine=Aviation Week}}</ref><ref>{{cite news | url=https://www.flightglobal.com/news/articles/in-focus-air-taxi-industry-is-39alive-and-kicking39-377391/ | title=IN FOCUS: Air taxi industry is 'alive and kicking' | magazine=Flight Global | date=22 October 2012 | author=Sarsfield, Kate}}</ref>
==Accidents and incidents== {{as of|November 2022}}, there had been two separate SF50 Cirrus Airframe Parachute System (CAPS) deployments, resulting in ground impacts and four survivors: one person with no injuries, two with minor injuries and a fourth person with serious though "non-life-threatening" injuries.<ref name="Niles09Sep22">{{cite web|url= https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/visionjet-caps-pull-in-florida-three-slightly-injured/|title= VisionJet CAPS Pull In Florida, Three Injured|access-date= 28 November 2022|last= Niles|first= Russ|work= AVweb|date= 9 September 2022 |archive-url= https://archive.today/20221128124835/https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/visionjet-caps-pull-in-florida-three-slightly-injured/|archive-date= 28 November 2022|url-status= live}}</ref><ref name="ClickOrlando">{{cite web|url= https://www.clickorlando.com/news/local/2022/09/09/private-jet-down-marsh-near-lake-tohopekaliga-sends-3-to-hospital-osceola-county-fire-rescue-says/|title= Private jet crashes in marsh near Lake Tohopekaliga, sends 3 to hospital |access-date= 28 November 2022|work= ClickOrlando.com|date= 9 September 2022}}</ref><ref name="Niles25Nov22">{{cite web|url= https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/pilot-uninjured-in-cirrus-jet-caps-pull/|title= Pilot Uninjured In Cirrus Jet CAPS Pull|access-date= 28 November 2022|last= Niles|first= Russ|work= AVweb|date= 25 November 2022|archive-url= https://archive.today/20221128124659/https://www.avweb.com/aviation-news/pilot-uninjured-in-cirrus-jet-caps-pull/|archive-date= 28 November 2022|url-status= live}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url= https://www.wrtv.com/news/public-safety/pilot-parachutes-from-aircraft-in-emergency-landing-in-hancock-county |title= Pilot makes emergency aircraft landing near Indianapolis Regional Airport in Hancock County |author= Lucas Gonzalez, Kelsey Anderson |date= 25 November 2022 |work=WRTV}}</ref>
== Specifications (G2 model) == {{Aircraft specs | ref= Cirrus<ref name="specs">{{cite web |url= https://cirrusaircraft.com/aircraft/vision-jet/ |title= Vision Jet |publisher= Cirrus Aircraft}}</ref> | prime units?=kts
| crew=one | capacity=six passengers | length m=9.42 | span m=11.8 | height m=3.32 | empty weight lb=3550 | gross weight lb=6000 | fuel capacity={{convert|2000|lb|kg}} | more general= * '''Cabin width × height:''' 5.1×4.1 ft (1.56×1.24 m) * '''Max payload:''' {{cvt|{{#expr:4900-3572}}|lb}}<!--MZFW-empty-->
| eng1 number=1 | eng1 name=Williams FJ33-5A | eng1 type= turbofan | eng1 lbf=1846
| max speed kts=311 | max speed note=maximum cruise speed | cruise speed kts=300 | cruise speed note= max cruise speed, {{cvt|240|kn|mph km/h}} economical cruise speed<ref name="Brochure"/> | stall speed kts=67 | stall speed note=with flaps | range nmi=500 | range note=with {{cvt|1200|lb|0}} payload at max cruise to {{cvt|1200|nmi|0}} with {{cvt|200|lb|0}} payload at economical cruise <ref name="Brochure"/> | ceiling ft=31000 | time to altitude= | wing loading lb/sqft= | more performance= * '''Mach maximum operating:''' Mach 0.53<ref name=AIN2dec2015>{{cite news |url= https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/general-aviation/2015-12-02/cirrus-teases-vision-sf50-performance-numbers |title= Cirrus Teases Vision SF50 Performance Numbers |author= Matt Thurber |date= December 2, 2015}}</ref> * '''Fuel consumption:''' 69gal/h, {{cvt|462|lb}}/h at maximum cruise, {{cvt|315|lb}}/h at economical cruise<ref name=AIN2dec2015/> * '''Takeoff:''' {{convert|2036|ft|m|order=flip}} roll, {{convert|3192|ft|m|order=flip}} over {{cvt|50|ft|m|order=flip}} obstacle * '''Landing:''' {{convert|1628|ft|m|order=flip}} ground roll
| avionics= * Garmin G3000 based Cirrus Perspective Touch+ }}
==See also== {{aircontent |related= * Cirrus VK-30 |similar aircraft= * Diamond D-Jet * Eclipse 400 * Epic Victory * Piper PA-47 PiperJet * Flaris LAR01 |lists= * List of very light jets }}
==References== {{Reflist}}
==External links== {{Commons category|Cirrus Vision SF50}} * {{Official website|https://cirrusaircraft.com/aircraft/vision-jet/}} * {{cite news |url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/11_43b/leadnews/190860-1.html?CMP=OTC-RSS |author= Niles, Russ |title= Cirrus Talks Jets... |work= Avweb |date= October 27, 2005}} * {{cite news |url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/12_40b/leadnews/cirrus_taking_jet_orders_193349-1.html |author= Niles, Russ |title= Cirrus Taking Jet Orders |work= Avweb |date= October 5, 2006}} * {{cite news |url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/12_42b/leadnews/the_jet_cirrus_williams_193496-1.html |author= Troutvetter, Chad |title= More On "the jet" From Cirrus Design |work= Avweb |date= October 19, 2006}} * {{cite news |url= https://www.aero-news.net/index.cfm?ContentBlockID=994a3bc4-32db-46a9-a6a2-1a12b3d78f78 |title= Cirrus Private Release |date= Apr 12, 2007 |work= aero-news}} * {{cite news |url= http://www.startribune.com/535/story/1275392.html |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20070701084544/http://www.startribune.com/535/story/1275392.html |url-status= dead |archive-date= July 1, 2007 |title= Cirrus Jet Information |work= Star Tribune |date= June 28, 2007}} * {{cite news |url= http://www.avweb.com/avwebflash/news/Cirrus_Unveils_Seven_Place_Personal_Jet_195513-1.html |title= Cirrus Unveils Seven-Place Personal Jet |date= June 28, 2007 |work= AVweb }} * {{cite news |url= https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/aviation-international-news/2007-07-30/cirrus-single-engine-jet-could-fly-two-years |title= Cirrus Jet Could fly in two Years |work= AIN online |date= July 30, 2007}} * {{cite news |url= http://cirrusaircraft.com/news/full-speed-ahead-for-revolutionary-vision-sf50-jet-program/ |archive-url= https://web.archive.org/web/20141201213047/http://cirrusaircraft.com/news/full-speed-ahead-for-revolutionary-vision-sf50-jet-program/ |url-status= dead |archive-date= December 1, 2014 |title='Full Speed Ahead' for Revolutionary Vision SF50 Jet Program |publisher= Cirrus|date= April 18, 2012 }} * {{cite news |url= http://www.flyingmag.com/photo-gallery/photos/cirrus-sf50-vision-jet-factory-tour |title=Gallery of SF50 parts in factory |work= Flying |date= March 3, 2015}} * {{cite news |url= http://www.avweb.com/videos/Video-Production-Starts-on-Cirrus-Vision-SF50-Jet-223952-1.html |title=Video of factory tour |date= April 22, 2015 |work= AVweb }} * {{cite news |url= https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/business-aviation/2017-11-28/pilot-report-cirrus-vision-jet |title= Pilot Report: Cirrus Vision Jet |author= Matt Thurber |date= November 28, 2017 |work= AIN}}
{{Cirrus}}
Vision Category:2000s United States civil utility aircraft Category:Single-engined jet aircraft Category:Low-wing aircraft Category:V-tail aircraft Category:Very light jets Category:Aircraft first flown in 2008 Category:Aircraft with retractable tricycle landing gear