Spectrum S-33 Independence

The Spectrum S-33 Independence was a very light jet prototype designed and built by Spectrum Aeronautical using a carbon fiber construction process that makes the airplane weigh about two-thirds as much as a comparably sized aluminum-frame airplane.

The aircraft was designed to cruise at 45,000 ft. at speeds up to 415 knots (Mach 0.72) and fly as far as 2000 nm (3700 km) while using about half the fuel of comparably sized aluminum-framed business aircraft. FAA and JAA Type Certifications of the S-33 Independence were expected to be completed in 2009, but were not. The company has provided no press releases to explain the long delay in gaining certification.

The aircraft was reported to be able to accommodate 5–6 passenger seats, a full-sized private lavatory, and will have a maximum take-off weight of 7,300 lb., with a range of over 2,000 miles.

The retail sales price of the aircraft, which is equipped with Williams FJ-33 engines was supposed to be US-$3.95 million. The aircraft was to be released about 12 months after the bigger S-40 "Freedom". In May 2011 Spectrum president Austin Blue said, "We are still trying to get the programs advancing, but it is not easy".