Dubai's Phoenix makes first flight

The aircraft took to the air for 1 hour 10 minutes from completion centre Flying Colours’ facility at Peterborough, Ontario.    Captain Larry Ross (test pilot) reported a faultless flight saying, “The aircraft handled and performed perfectly with all systems and avionics operational.  Our flight engineer reported an extremely quiet cabin.”

The aircraft’s elegant, new 15 seat luxury interior includes a state-of-the-art cabin management system and IFE, with Airshow 4000, ipod stations and full internet and Satcom communications. The aircraft with its clean and stylish interior has been well received by both owner Ritz Pacific and Jet Asia (which will fly the aircraft on its AOC).

The Project Phoenix gteam are particulalry pleased with the aircraft’s operating weight.   The new typewill have a payload of more than 1,200lbs with full fuel including the long range auxiliary tank – which equates to six passengers; compared to Bombardier’s CL850 which has a full fuel payload of less than 200lbs (approximately one passenger) with the same high specification. 

“This is extremely gratifying news and pretty much what we predicted," said Project Phoenix President and CEO Mike Cappuccitti while congratulating contractor Flying Colours.   Phoenix CRJ No 1 has been fitted with Flying Colours own long range fuel tanks, providing a maximum range in excess of 3,000 nm and giving US coast-to-coast capability.  

Project Phoenix worked with Skyservice at Toronto Pearson Airport on an extensive maintenance program and with Flying Colours of Peterborough for the interior and completions process.  The aircraft will shortly enter service with Jet Asia in Macau. T