Spectrum Aeronautical Nets Fleet Order from Starfish
Carlsbad, Calif.-based Spectrum Aeronautical earlier this week announced another fleet order for its in-development S.33 Independence very light jet and S.

Carlsbad, Calif.-based Spectrum Aeronautical earlier this week announced another fleet order for its in-development S.33 Independence very light jet and S.40 Freedom light jet. The latest fleet order for an unspecified mix of S.33s and S.40s from Northbrook, Ill.-based Starfish Aviation is valued “in the nine-digit range,” according to Spectrum president Austin Blue. He said that Starfish selected Spectrum’s equipment following in-depth evaluations to find the right aircraft for its operations. “Starfish has a program that is well suited to today’s dynamic and demanding transportation marketplace,” Blue noted. “The Freedom and Independence will perform effectively for them.” According to the release announcing the deal, Starfish Aviation is “a new jet charter and management company” founded by Kenneth Ross, who is also the founder, president and CEO of Chicago Executive Airport-based North American Jet Charter Group. North American Jet currently provides Eclipse 500 charter and management services. Other than having the same founder, the exact business relationship between North American Jet and Starfish is unclear. North American Jet did not return AIN’s inquiries seeking clarification. The S.40 is slated for FAA certification late next year, with the S.33 following about a year later.