Aerion CEO Doug Nichols today announced plans for the manufacture of the AS2 supersonic business jet. “Aerion has begun a formal search for a U.S. manufacturing location,” he said. “We're looking for a state-of-the art campus of more than 100 acres on a major airport with a minimum 9,000-foot runway, and other special geophysical requirements.” Among them will be a location within 200 nautical miles of a supersonic flight test area, most likely one offshore.

Aerion will evaluate numerous factors including: airport suitability; road and rail infrastructure; proximity to a deep-water port for shipped structures and equipment; local aerospace workforce; state and local regulations; quality of life; and regional educational institutions.

The company expects to announce the location of the assembly site in the first half of 2016 upon formal launch of the AS2 program, and break ground in 2018. First flight of the Aerion AS2 is planned for 2021 and certification by the FAA in 2023 with entry into service that year.

Airbus Group will provide major components and Aerion will conduct final assembly. Both companies envision a long-term relationship for ongoing technical support. Aerion will draw on expertise from Airbus Group for establishing the new Aerion production facility.

“Aerion's new American home will set the standard for 21st century aerospace manufacturing,” said Nichols.