Eclipse Business Jets - History

2002: The Eclipse 500 is flown for the first time. The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approves the use of Friction Stir Welding (FSW) to produce the Eclipse 500.

2006: The 2005 Robert J. Collier Trophy is awarded to Eclipse Aviation for innovation in the advancement of general aviation through the design, development and manufacture of the Eclipse 500. Eclipse Aviation receives full type certification for the Eclipse 500 from the FAA. The first production Eclipse 500 receives its Certificate of Airworthiness from the FAA, and the first Eclipse 500 is delivered to a customer.

2007: Eclipse Aviation receives its production certificate from the FAA. The Eclipse Concept Jet is revealed at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh, Wisconsin. Eclipse Aviation opens its Customer Training Center in Albuquerque, and an Eclipse Service Center (ESC) in Gainesville, Fla. The FAA certifies Avio NG Total Aircraft Integration™, an avionics system exclusive to the Eclipse 500.

2008: Eclipse Aviation becomes the fastest general aviation jet aircraft manufacturer in history to produce its first 100 airplanes. Eclipse achieves Part 142 Training Certification. Eclipse Aviation expands its partnership with European Technology and Investment Research Center (ETIRC) Aviation to extend the global reach and impact of the Eclipse 500. An ESC is opened in Albany, N.Y.