Eclipse Aerospace, Inc. (EAI) is rolling out a new factory refurbishment program called “Total Eclipse” for new customers of the certified twin-engine Very Light Jet. The Total Eclipse program marks the completion of the final design of the original EA500 aircraft, company official said.
In September 2009, Eclipse Aerospace embarked on a mission to finish the design and promised capabilities of the Eclipse 500. Since acquisition of the company, Eclipse Aerospace has been investing in, and completing the design and certification of, the original EA500 jet, which now includes FIKI (Flight Into Known Icing) and GPS coupled autopilot.
“In their rush to deliver the aircraft, the former manufacturer of the EA500 [Eclipse Aviation Corp.] delivered to owners an aircraft that was only about 85% complete,” said Mason Holland, chairman and president of Eclipse Aerospace. “These aircraft were great performers, but still lacked several important features. We now have completed the design and engineering of the EA500.”
Eclipse Aerospace has re-engaged major suppliers of the aircraft’s components and systems. EAI, now with more than 100 engineers and technicians, continues to develop new features and increased functionality that will be included in the next version of the aircraft when production eventually resumes, Holland said.
Total Eclipse program customers can buy a fully configured EA500 aircraft that encompasses all currently available features and functionality. Specific components will include flight to 41,000 feet, 20,000 cycle airframe life and an on-board color radar, electronic moving maps and eCharts (Jeppesen) all presented directly on the EA500 multifunction display. Every Total Eclipse, priced at $2.15 million, also includes a factory warranty. For a limited number of early buyers each Total Eclipse purchase also comes with a guaranteed buy-back provision. With this guarantee, EAI will agree to repurchase the aircraft for a guaranteed amount, which can be applied towards a first year production slot when EA500 manufacturing resumes.
Existing EA500 owners may also take advantage of the Total Eclipse program. For a limited time, Eclipse Aerospace plans to offer trade-in credits for used EA500 aircraft ranging from $1 million to $1.7 million, depending on the condition and features of the aircraft presented for trade in.
“The Total Eclipse program is the most comprehensive and important action we have taken to date as we expand our support for EA500 owners,” said Holland. “The people who own and fly the initial fleet of 260 EA500 aircraft are the innovators of the very light private jet aircraft market. We are proud that with this announcement, Eclipse Aerospace is delivering on the full promise of the Eclipse 500.”
For more information: EclipseAerospace.net or 877-375-7978.
