Cirrus Design rolled out its "The-Jet" Thursday June 26, announcing the test aircraft - 'V1' - is ready to begin taxi tests. That means a first flight can be expected soon and, with about a month to go until Opening Day at EAA AirVenture 2008, the question is: Will the company show off its new so-called "first personal jet" at general aviation's most important showcase, Oshkosh?

In a news release announcing the taxi tests, Mike VanStaagen, Vice President of Cirrus' Advanced Development Group remarked, "Even at this critical stage, the team is approaching its work and the impending flight schedule with the same careful diligence and thoughtful planning as it has from the onset of the program. As exciting as we all are about the special milestone we know is just ahead of us, we have to take the same measured approach as always to ensure both aircraft and pilot safety and ensure that we accomplish our program goals at every juncture, including taxi testing and first flight."

Cirrus officials declined to comment further about whether the plane will be in Oshkosh next month. But we'll keep you posted when they do. For additional information on The Jet, visit www.the-jet.com.