Otto Aerospace has finalized the G-1 Issue Paper for its Phantom 3500 business jet program, establishing the aircraft’s certification basis with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
The company said the milestone defines the regulatory framework for type certification of the clean-sheet aircraft under 14 CFR Part 23.
Otto became an FAA applicant for type certification in September 2025. The company said it chose the Part 23 path to use certification efficiencies introduced under Amendment 23-64.
Closure of the G-1 Issue Paper establishes the rules and regulatory requirements the aircraft will have to meet as the program moves through testing and certification.
Otto said it is also working with the FAA East Certification Branch to close the G-2 Issue Paper, which will define the means of compliance for the Phantom 3500 certification program.
“This is a huge moment for the entire Otto Team and a really exciting milestone for the Phantom 3500,” said Scott Drennan, President and CEO of Otto Aerospace. “Now that the certification basis is in place, the program moves into a higher gear on execution.”
The Phantom 3500 is being developed as a transonic laminar-flow business jet. Otto says the aircraft’s design is intended to reduce drag and energy use, while offering a new cabin concept called Supernatural Vision.
The aircraft uses a windowless cabin architecture, with external imaging feeding interior displays. Otto says the approach is part of the aircraft’s low-drag design.
The company said the FAA milestone follows extensive testing and engineering work, as well as completion of the Phantom 3500 Preliminary Design Review.
“We appreciate the FAA’s continued engagement in reaching this milestone,” said Kerri Hinton, Director of Test & Certification at Otto Aerospace. “Our commitment to safety is unwavering, and we look forward to continuing our work together as we advance the Phantom 3500 through certification.”
Otto said advanced material testing has started and supplier work is continuing as the company works toward first flight in 2027 and entry into service in 2030.
Flight testing is planned from Cecil Airport in Jacksonville, Florida, where Otto is establishing its new operating base.
The Phantom 3500 program is backed by a firm order from Flexjet for 300 aircraft. Otto has described the agreement as one of the largest commitments in business aviation history, with a value of more than $5 billion.
Otto launched the Phantom 3500 publicly in 2025. The company has said the aircraft is designed to cut fuel burn by more than 60% compared with conventional business jets in its class.