N505EA Towed To Eclipse Hangar On Its Own Gear; Pilot Error Found As Cause

Eclipse Aviation has updated ANN after its fourth FAA-conforming flight test aircraft, N505EA, experienced a gear-up landing on Saturday, September 4th at the Albuquerque International Sunport. The two pilots on board sustained no injuries. The belly landing occurred on runway 3 and the aircraft was towed back to the Eclipse hangar shortly after the event.

After a thorough investigation, Eclipse determined that the cause of the gear-up landing was pilot error. The company also established that no aircraft mechanical or electrical problems contributed to the event.

Eclipse is still evaluating the aircraft, but initial reports indicate the damage to N505EA is repairable. The company currently has four other flying aircraft in flight testing.

"We are very thankful that no one was hurt and pleased that the aircraft will fly again," said Eclipse Aviation president and CEO Vern Raburn.

"Due to a sturdy and well-built design, the Eclipse 500 can withstand events like this without injuries or catastrophic damage. We are evaluating the damage to the aircraft, but are confident that we will demonstrate how easily a friction stir welded structure can be fixed."

FMI: www.eclipseaviation.com