Eclipse 500

ECLIPSE AEROSPACE | E500 | ECLIPSE 500 (2006-2008)

BRIEF HISTORY – ECLIPSE 500
The Eclipse 500 is officially known as the Eclipse Aerospace EA500. The Eclipse 500 was the first aircraft to be classified as a Very Light Jet (VLJ). VLJ aircraft are compact, light, and agile. Eclipse 500 deliveries began in 2006 and ended in 2008. Due to a lack of money, deliveries ceased after this two-year period. In November 2008, the firm declared bankruptcy. In those two years they would produce 260 Eclipse 500’s despite only being delivered to customers for two years. A staggering amount considering the product’s brief delivery time frame.Eclipse Aerospace acquired the assets of Eclipse Aviation in August 2009. Following this, Eclipse Aerospace introduced the Eclipse 550, an updated version of the Eclipse 500. The first Eclipse 550 was delivered on October 22, 2013. Eclipse Aviation was acquired by One Aviation from 2015 to 2018. In March 2017 One Aviation announced it would be ending production to focus on the new Eclipse 700 model. In 2021 One Aviation would file for bankruptcy and begin the liquidation process. In late 2021, AML Global Express would purchase for service and support of existing Eclipses. The Eclipse 500 is a unique aircraft with a distinctive wing form and single-pilot capabilities. Due to the Eclipse 500’s status as a Very Light Jet, it is ideal for clients wishing to fly with just one or two other persons and little luggage on a short journey.

CABIN COMFORTS – ECLIPSE 500
There is no way around it, this jet does not have a bathroom.  At the time of its launch, it was the first general aviation jet without a toilet. This was a point of contention at the time.  However, in today’s world, the lack of a bathroom on an airplane of this magnitude is unsurprising. Since 2006, VLJs have continued to grow in size and amenities, many claim that the VLJ category no longer exists except for the Vision Jet and Eclipse. As a result, the aircraft classified as Very Light Jets today — the Cessna Citation M2, the Embraer Phenom 100EV, and the HondaJet – all include bathrooms and are more akin to traditional light jets.The cabin is fairly straightforward with comfortable, supportive chairs on tracks for easy modification. The luggage compartment is behind the main cabin seats and can hold around 4-5 bags, soft-sided is always best. One must conclude that if one wishes to travel in a genuine Very Light Jet, the absence of a toilet is a necessary sacrifice. The majority of the Eclipse’s flights were, on average, between 40 and 80 minutes.

POWER AND PERFORMANCE – ECLIPSE 500
The Eclipse 500 is powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW610F turbofan engines positioned at the rear of the aircraft. Each engine generates 900 lbf of thrust enabling the Eclipse 500 to  travel at speeds up to 370 knots while cruising at 41,000 feet. As expected, short-field performance is outstanding. The take-off distance is just 2,394 feet, while the landing distance is a minimum of 2,342 feet.The aircraft’s maximum range is 1,300 nautical miles . While these were the official statistics provided by Eclipse Aviation at the time, the reported range did vary. One should note that  the weight of the aircraft has a significant effect on its performance capabilities. As a result, even a few additional bags significantly restrict the aircraft’s range. Therefore, if you intend to fly on the Eclipse 500, pack light.

FLIGHT DECK – ECLIPSE 500
The Eclipse 500 features an appealing, contemporary cockpit. Avio Avionics Suite is installed on the aircraft which  is a highly integrated avionics system that serves as the foundation for the rest of the systems foundation. Almost every aircraft function is interfaced with the system. Two Primary Flight Displays (PFDs) and two Aircraft Computer Systems are located in the glass cockpit (ACS). These are considered the avionics system’s pillars.

CHARTER AN ECLIPSE 500
The Eclipse 500 is small but mighty. It is an incredibly fast and efficient aircraft for 1-3 passengers on short in-state or regional flights. It is perfect for an executive or small family on a weekend trip. Discover the new destinations the Eclipse 500 can take you! CharterJets Inc. features the newest and highest safety rated Eclipse 500’s available with a dual pilot crew. Reach out today to discuss your upcoming travel!