How many companies does it take to build a microjet? Eight and counting (in alphabetic order) -- Adam, Avocet, Cessna (Mustang), Diamond, Eclipse, Honda, Safire, Sino Swearingen, and there's rumblings of Cirrus joining in (Toyota next?). If I missed any, please let me know. 

The message is that either there is tremendous demand for their 6-8 seat jet aircraft (enough to support them all), or there is a collective confidence that "my company" will survive a more limited market. I hope it is the former.  

Air taxi operators expecting to offer per-seat airline style pricing will largely depend on the low acquisition and operating/maintenance costs of these new aircraft. None are yet in passenger service -- the first FAA certification forecast for the end of 2004 (Adam A700). 

Students of competition, particularly in the aircraft industry, could find microjet development a fascinating watch. Fasten your seat belts.  

12/23/03
 

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