XFS Software Completes First Flight on the Eclipse 500 Jet

Avilution’s new FAA-approved Air Data Computer (ADC) upgrade recently took flight for the first time on board the Eclipse 500 Jet. The software aims to serve as a solution for older aircraft looking for modern tech upgrades.

Avilution, an avionics software company, is based at Huntsville International Airport (HSV) in Alabama. Its eXtensible Flight System (XFS) software was paired with the Resurgent Aviation Solutions ADC replacement designed specifically for the Eclipse 500. Skytron Avionics, which also operates out of Huntsville, was responsible for integrating the hardware elements with the ADC modification.

"We are glad that Avilution has been successful in receiving FAA approval for their aviation software and that Huntsville International Airport has been able to provide facilities that support the development of this important product," expressed Butch Roberts, CEO of Huntsville International Airport. "We look forward to their continued growth and achievements."

The current ADC for most Eclipse 500 very light jets has a poor reputation, known for having frequent failures, limited availability, and high costs. This often causes operational concerns for pilots due to unreliable flight data provided by the faulty unit. Resurgent sourced a replacement for the system and added the Avilution XFS to improve safety while maintaining the original design.

"A big advantage of this outcome was that nothing changed with the pilots' interface to the avionics,” explained Avilution founder Mark Spencer. “This integration is completely invisible to the flight crew, avoiding the need for additional flight training or procedure changes.”

This solution is part of Avilution’s primary ambition. The company aims to develop software-based avionics that are not restricted to specialized hardware while addressing the critical safety requirements unique to the aviation industry.

"Developing the software and hardware with Avilution and Skytron Avionics was a great experience and a great example of teamwork,” stated Cary Winter, CEO of Resurgent Aviation Solutions. “Both companies delivered exactly as promised, and together we brought this long-sought-after project to fruition."

FMI: www.avilution.com/xfs