Otto Aerospace has taken another important step toward certifying its Phantom 3500 business
Otto Aerospace has taken another important step toward certifying its Phantom 3500 business jet after closing the FAA’s G-1 Issue Paper for the aircraft. This milestone confirms the certification basis for the programme, giving the company a clearer regulatory framework as it prepares to validate the jet’s design requirements.
The Phantom 3500 is drawing significant attention across the aviation industry because of its unusual windowless design and its focus on laminar-flow aerodynamics. Otto Aerospace believes this technology could substantially improve efficiency by helping airflow remain smooth over the aircraft’s surface, reducing drag and lowering the energy required for flight.
The aircraft is being developed as a clean-sheet midsize business jet and will be certified under FAA Part 23 rules. Otto Aerospace became an FAA type-certification applicant in September 2025 and is now also working with the FAA East Certification Branch on the G-2 Issue Paper, which will define how the company demonstrates compliance during certification.
According to Otto Aerospace CEO Scott Drennan, finalising the certification basis gives the Phantom 3500 programme stronger momentum as it moves toward first flight and eventual service entry. The company plans to fly its first Flight Test Vehicle in 2027, with entry into service targeted for 2030.
A key part of the Phantom 3500’s design is its smooth carbon-fibre fuselage. Instead of traditional passenger windows, which can disturb airflow, the aircraft will use external cameras and digital displays inside the cabin. Otto Aerospace says this approach supports its laminar-flow goals and could help the jet achieve up to 61% lower fuel burn compared with current super-midsize business aircraft.
The company has also begun advanced materials testing and plans to conduct flight testing from Cecil Airport in Jacksonville, Florida. The programme has already secured a major commercial commitment from Flexjet, which has placed a firm order for 300 aircraft, valued at more than $5 billion at list prices.