Leading Very Light Jet Has Now Reached Service Ceiling And Maximum Speed

Eclipse Aviation Corporation tells ANN that it has met a number of new goals as its flight test program continues  to make rapid progress. The Eclipse 500 climbed to its service ceiling and reached its maximum operating speed for the first time. Aircraft N502EA, equipped with flutter exciters, an air data boom and a high-speed chute, reached 41,000 feet and accelerated to the maximum operating speed (Vmo) of 285 knots.

"We have now confirmed the Eclipse 500's excellent handling at the high and low end of the operating envelope," said Eclipse Aviation president and CEO Vern Raburn.

"Recently, our flight test program completed the high end and in 2003, we concluded a highly successful N500EA flight test program that opened the lower end of the operating envelope while completing 117 stalls."

Flight Test Fleet Momentum Accelerates

The Eclipse 500 test fleet of FAA conforming aircraft has exceeded 200 flight hours, accelerating to speeds of 285 knots and soaring to heights of 41,000 feet. The test program has proven the Eclipse 500's exceptional handling characteristics at high altitudes. Over the coming weeks, Eclipse's test aircraft fleet will complete key certification, function and reliability testing.

Eclipse is manufacturing seven preproduction aircraft: one static test airframe, one fatigue test airframe and five flight test aircraft. The final flight test aircraft and second beta test jet, N506EA, is in its final assembly position and will join N502EA, N503EA, N504EA and N505EA in the air this summer.

FMI: www.eclipseaviation.com