Flexjet Orders 300 Phantom 3500 Jets
Otto Aerospace has announced Flexjet will be the launch customer for the next-generation Phantom 3500 business jet. The deal includes a firm order for 300 Phantom 3500 jets with additional options. The first flight of the Phantom 3500 is expected in 2027, with deliveries planned for 2030.
Phantom 3500
The brand-new design is a clean-sheet, efficient jet aircraft that utilizes laminar-flow aerodynamics and precision all-carbon-fiber composites, which Otto says will reduce fuel burn by over 60%.
The aircraft specifications include a maximum range of 3,500 nm and a 4-passenger range of 3,200 nm, with a cruise altitude of 51,000 feet. Inside, there will be 800 cubic feet of cabin space, seating for up to 9 passengers and 6 feet 5 inches of cabin height – this is more headroom than typical large cabin jets. One of the unique features will be the absence of cabin windows, replaced by high-definition digital displays that integrate real-time external views.
The company says the estimated price is approximately $19.5m, valuing the overall order at approximately $6bn.
“For 30 years, Flexjet has led through innovation opposed to imitation, introducing tomorrow’s standards, not reacting to yesterday’s expectations,” said Flexjet Chairman Kenn Ricci. “The Phantom 3500 exemplifies that approach perfectly, marking a bold step into a future where an aircraft’s efficiency and sustainability stand alongside speed, comfort, and range as defining standards. This collaboration with Otto Aerospace further affirms our leadership role in delivering to fractional aircraft owners the future of luxury private aviation.”
Otto Aerospace
The company was founded in 2008 and was initially known as Otto Aviation. It had originally been developing the Otto Celera 500L, which was powered by a single five-blade propeller in a pusher configuration, and the prototype incorporated laminar-flow technology.
Having done multiple test flights with the 500L, the company has now changed its focus to the larger, jet-powered Phantom 3500.
“Flexjet’s decision to build their fleet around the Phantom 3500 speaks volumes about where aviation is headed. As one of the largest business jet orders in private aviation history, this marks a turning point in the industry’s move toward sustainable and efficient air travel,” said Paul Touw, CEO of Otto Aerospace. “The Phantom 3500 will redefine private aviation, providing Flexjet with a fleet that dramatically reduces costs while expanding operational capabilities and enhancing the customer flying experience.”
Developing and certifying brand-new, clean-sheet aircraft has historically taken a significant time. For instance, Honda first flew its HondaJet in 2003, after several years of development, but it didn’t receive FAA certification until 2015. It will be interesting to see if Otto can meet its timeline for deliveries in 2030.
In the meantime, it’s a beautiful-looking aircraft, with some marvelous features.
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