Sonex Debuts Its B-Model, Lowers Price Of SubSonex Jet To Speed Sales

A graphic of the Sonex B-Models. Courtesy of Sonex Aircraft

John Monnett, designer and founder of experimental aircraft manufacturer Sonex, has been telling people the company's plan "B" is "what you've been asking for," and here at Sun ’n Fun, he revealed exactly what the plan is. The Oshkosh-based experimental aircraft guru also explained the company's efforts to make its one-place SubSonex jet go faster---at least in terms of sales.

"B" is Sonex's new B-Model kit aircraft, a roomier, more comfortable and quicker-to-build version of the original Sonex experimental two-place aircraft, with kit deliveries expected to begin in June. The B-Model is available in both straight-tail and V-tail Waiex (pronounced "Y-ex) variants. In addition to providing more width and a lengthened cabin, the seat positions are farther back, and their geometry accommodates taller individuals. The standard "Y-Stick" and dual throttles allow control from either seat. The larger cabin also creates more panel room, allowing for today's popular dual-screen avionics installations, including the MGL iEFIS Explorer 8.5-inch displays. Sonex has expanded the powerplant options for the Bs, including the Jabiru 3300, ULPower 350 and Rotax 912, in addition to Sonex's own AeroVee kit engines. The B's 20-gallon fuel tank represents 25% more fuel capacity than the original Sonex and Waiex. Complete airframe kits for the Sonex-B and Waiex-B are $23,000, and the Quick Build kit upgrade is $7,900.

The original Sonex. Courtesy of Sonex Aircraft

Sonex also discussed the recent re-pricing for the SubSonex jet program. "We've split the kit from the engine and some other accessories to make it more affordable," said Sonex General Manager Mark Schaible. The jet kit is now $42,000, and the engine is about $55,000 at current Euro exchange rates, Schaible said, bringing the price of the jet to "just under $100,000, minus avionics and other accessories." Since most buyers intend to fly day-VFR only, a basic avionics package could cost as little as "a couple of grand," Schaible said.

A top-down view of the interior. Courtesy of Sonex Aircraft

Last year, the company sold seven SubSonex kits; one is flying and others are close to completion. "It's time to put this jet in the hands of more pilots," Schaible said. "It's every pilot's dream to fly a jet," and, he added, Sonex not only has the product, but the approved training program to make them safe to fly it.

Take the B-Model for a VR spin on the Sonex Aircraft at sonexaircraft.com.

James WynbrandtWriter

None