Grob Light Jet Crashes

The second prototype of the eight-passenger Grob SPn light jet crashed shortly after takoff from the company's airfield in Tussenhausen-Mattsies, Germany, on November 29, killing the chief test pilot, who was the sole occupant. The airplane had logged 28 hours since its first flight on September 29. Before the accident, Grob had expected the multi-role, $7.1 million SPn to receive its European approval in the third quarter of 2007, followed by FAA certification before the end of 2007. A third SPn prototype is under construction and expected to fly in early 2007.