Cirrus Designs much anticipated The-Jet made its maiden flight yesterday. According to the company, the distinctive v-tailed Very Light Jet (VLJ) “performed flawlessly” during the 45 minute flight. With a chase aircraft close flying close by, The-Jet, in a distinctive metallic crimson and white livery flew a pattern above Cirrus headquarters at the Duluth International Airport in Duluth, Minn.

The-Jet is designed for one pilot, with room for five passengers. Cirrus is hoping to market the plane to owner-pilots, attracted to the prospect of flying a jet-powered craft. The-Jet’s unique “backpack” mounted engine nacelle is said to give the plane exceptionally smooth handling and engine efficiency- perfect for recreational pilots without previous experience flying a jet. Outfitted with a parachute built into the plane, it looks to offer a high degree of safety as well.

According to Cirrus, The-Jet employs the first v-tail design on any major consumer aircraft in 60 years. That design not only allows for the back-pack mounted engine, but thanks to advanced computer modeling, it is said to supply superior aerodynamics as well.

Whatever the case, Cirrus has designed a certainly exciting looking plane, with lines which resemble a fighter jet, more than any general aviation plane on the market. Priced to be competitive with the Eclipse 500 (around $2 million), The-Jet looks to become a major player in the Very Light Jet market.