Guarantees RVSM and Autothrottle as Standard Equipment

Eclipse Aviation Corporation announced at EBACE that it has applied for certification of the Eclipse 500 jet with the Joint Aviation Authority (JAA). The certification, under JAR-23, is anticipated in 2006. Eclipse also revealed that Reduced Vertical Separation Minimums (RVSM) capability and autothrottle have been added to its guaranteed standard equipment list, formalizing its long-standing plan to include these high-end features as standard on the Eclipse 500.

Such high-line systems unusual on such a little jet: big competitive advantage?

"Since the beginning, we have enjoyed tremendous interest and strong sales in Europe, so formally initiating the JAA certification process is the next logical step," said Vern Raburn, president and CEO of Eclipse Aviation. "We have a great aircraft for the European market. RVSM capability and 8.33 kHz radios, both required in Europe, come as standard features in the Eclipse 500.  Autothrottle, which along with RVSM, was recently added to our guaranteed equipment list, is a vitally-important safety feature for all of our customers worldwide."

Once engaged, autothrottle automatically manages aircraft power to maintain a pilot-selected speed.  In addition to enhancing safety, autothrottle improves engine and fuel management. The company says, "The Eclipse 500 is the least-expensive aircraft to utilize this technology."

Experienced team will make it happen

JAA certification requirements have been considered throughout the development of the Eclipse 500 program, under the experienced guidance of Dr. Oliver Masefield, vp of engineering and Randy Griffith, director of certification.  Dr. Masefield has driven the successful European certification of the Pilatus PC-7, PC-9 and PC-12, and has participated on many JAA leadership committees over the past ten years.  Randy Griffith worked for many years as an FAA liaison to the JAA.

FMI: www.eclipseaviation.com