SyberJet SJ36 mock-up makes world debut at NBAA-BACE, as SJ34 deliveries targeted for 2029

US business jet manufacturer SyberJet is targeting the light jet market with two upgraded aircraft, promising transcontinental range, higher speeds and lower operational costs.

SyberJet unveiled a full-scale mock-up of its next-generation SJ36 business jet and outlined plans to bring its SJ34 to market, with reservations now being taken for both jets. The company is targeting the competitive light business jet sector with its two new airframes.

The manufacturer made the announcements at SyberJet World, Henderson Executive Airport in Las Vegas, on 19 November, on the eve of this year’s National Business Aviation Association (NBAA) Business Aviation Convention and Exhibition (BACE).

The company livestreamed the unveiling internationally and also showcased its proprietary SyberVision avionics suite, opening reservations for the SJ36.

SyberJet’s SJ36 targets light business jet sector

Designed to combine the speed and range traditionally associated with larger business jets, the SJ36 will also deliver the operating economics of a light jet. SyberJet is targeting a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.88, a range of up to 3,000nm and sea-level cabin pressure at altitudes of up to 41,000 ft.

The aircraft is an evolution of the manufacturer’s SJ30 platform, for which development was halted in the early 1990s when financial support was withdrawn. The SJ36 features a stretched fuselage, larger cabin, and upgraded systems. The single-pilot jet will accommodate up to eight passengers, positioning it for long domestic and transcontinental journeys.  

“This isn’t an incremental improvement – it’s a fundamental course change,” said Trevor Milton, CEO of SyberJet Aircraft.

A fixed-wing and rotorcraft pilot, Milton underlined the aircraft could offer a viable alternative to more expensive midsize jets for operators requiring longer-range capability.

“You no longer need a US$100,000 midsize charter to fly coast to coast – the SJ36 can do it for 50 to 70% less.”

It’s worth noting, however, that these savings are a company projection and will depend on the aircraft’s eventual acquisition price, operating costs and mission profile.

How SyberJet’s SJ36 is challenging established light jets.

Once it achieves and certifies its projected performance, the SJ36 could offer an alternative to established light business jets such as the Embraer Phenom 300E and Cessna Citation CJ4 Gen2. Its targeted range and cabin-pressure performance could also appeal to buyers who might otherwise consider midsize jets for longer journeys.

The aircraft’s proposed range of 3,000nm would also give it a significant reach advantage over many traditional light jets. Meanwhile, the target speed of Mach 0.88 would put it among the faster aircraft in its intended market.

While the SJ36 remains a development programme, SyberJet is confident of making first deliveries in 2032.

SyberJet’s SJ34 to succeed the SJ30-2

Alongside the SJ36, SyberJet outlined plans for its SJ34, which will replace the FAA-certified SJ30-2 and for which it is also now taking reservations.

The single-pilot jet is expected to accommodate up to six-passengers. It will retain the high-speed, long-range characteristics of the existing platform but will be upgraded with SyberVision avionics and larger Williams engines.

The SJ34 is expected to offer a range of up to 2,500nm and a maximum operating speed of Mach 0.83. The larger engines will deliver between 5,000 and 6,400 lbs of thrust, while the all-new interior will match the SJ36. First customer deliveries are expected in 2029.

The SJ34 is being offered to Passage One programme members at a launch price of US$10m, compared with the standard price of US$12 million.

New avionics at the centre of SyberJet’s programme

Both jets will feature SyberVision, the company’s proprietary avionics platform, which is expected to improve flight-deck integration, connectivity and pilot workflow. It includes six high-definition touchscreen displays, an integrated flight management system, secure over-the-air software updates and smartphone connectivity.

The company is also developing features including SyberPilot, described as an AI-assisted flight technology, alongside digital charting and improved taxi functions.

Connected features are intended to enable pilots to upload flight plans and access aircraft functions remotely, including cabin-temperature controls SyberJet is also promising a more premium passenger experience, with Italian leather seating and updated cabin systems.

Early access to SyberJet’s SJ36 and SJ34 to stimulate demand

SyberJet is offering early buyers access to its Passage One programme, which is limited to the first 250 customers. Members are being offered the stated launch prices of US$14m for the SJ36 and US$10m for the SJ34, a discount of US$2m from the respective standard prices of US$16m and US$12m announced by the company.

The programme is intended to attract early commitments as SyberJet looks to build demand ahead of production.

The challenge now is execution. The SJ36’s targeted range and speed make it an ambitious entrant into a market already served by established manufacturers. Meanwhile, the SJ34 must demonstrate that its upgrades translate into a compelling proposition against newer-generation light jets.

Milton remains hopeful: “We didn’t just show up at NBAA; we showed up having broken the world speed record for light jets by a whopping 48%. The full-scale SJ36 mock-up represents what the production aircraft is expected to look like. The avionics are world-class and may be better than any system on the market.”

For SyberJet’s Passage One Program members, Milton said customers could “save millions of dollars over the competition.” The exclusive club limited to the first 250 customers will include a SJ36 launch price of US$14m, instead of US$16m and an SJ34 launch price of US$10m instead of US$12m.