First Of A Series Of Aircraft Mods Will Develop EA700 Concept

ONE Aviation has confirmed the successful first flight of their aerodynamic proof-of-concept, EA700 (“Project Canada”) wing, to ANN.

Experimental test aircraft N990NE was modified to test the new wing shape being used for the EA700 model currently in development. This aircraft still sports the E500 fuselage, engines, and stabilizers, but has had the wing modified to match the shape expected of the EA700 wing. Changes to the wing include the overall 4-foot increase in wingspan and reshaping of the inboard wing airfoils and platform. The expected shape of the production EA700 wing tips have not been included in this modification, however.

“This is a key milestone in the path to making a very good airplane a great airplane”, said Alan Klapmeier. “the ONE Aviation team has worked hard to achieve this key milestone for the EA700 proof-of-concept wing.”

Today’s flight lasted approximately 1.5 hours. Handling qualities were evaluated during transitions between all configurations. Maneuvering and basic aircraft flying qualities were evaluated at altitudes up to 15,000 ft. The plane performed flawlessly and all test condition results were as expected.

"The aircraft felt “very solid” said Jerry Chambers, Chief Test Pilot and PIC for the flight, “a testament to the efforts of the engineering and build teams.”

'Project Canada' is an upgrade to the Eclipse 500/550 program and will not require an all new type certificate. The upgraded configuration carries more fuel in a longer wing, with two-foot extensions on each side. The fuselage is being stretched 14 inches for more cabin volume, while the airframe will be powered  Williams International FJ33 engines, and a Garmin cockpit has been selected for the front end. Passenger comfort was augmented via a fuselage stretch that added cargo capacity, as well as more head room. A 4th cabin window brings in more natural light, and seven inches of additional leg room is added to the bird while baggage volume increases by 31%.

The Eclipse EA-700 will offer 373 knots cruise at 43,000 ft to destinations up to 1500 miles away.

FMI: www.ONEaviation.aero