Eclipse Aviation News
While it is too early to set premiums, Global expects insurance premiums for the new Eclipse 500 will be similar to those for existing aircraft, based upon anticipated innovative training and customer support programs that will be part of Eclipse's product offering.
“Insurance is a requirement for every aircraft owner, and in today's market cannot be taken for granted,” said Vern Raburn, CEO and president of Eclipse Aviation. “It is great news for our customers that aviation's leading insurance underwriter is making the commitment now to write policies for the Eclipse 500 jet, even though it is 18 months before the aircraft will be available to customers.”
“With a new aircraft, the question for insurers is always safety, which is a direct result of the quality of training pilots receive,” said John D'Angelone, executive vice president for General Aviation of Global Aerospace. “We've been impressed with Eclipse's commitment to provide a comprehensive training program for all its customers. Eclipse's approach to safety will pay dividends to its customers and the insurance industry.”
The Eclipse 500 jet is on track for certification in December 2003 with first customer deliveries scheduled for January 2004. The first Eclipse 500 flight test aircraft was rolled out in a ceremony held in Albuquerque, N.M. on July 13, 2002 and will begin flight-testing this summer.
Eclipse Aviation is in the business of designing, certifying and producing modern, affordable jet aircraft that will revolutionize the transportation market. The company is applying advanced electronics systems, manufacturing and business practices to produce aircraft that cost less than a quarter of today's small jet aircraft, will be significantly safer and easier to operate than those of today, and have the lowest cost of ownership ever achieved in a jet aircraft.
The goal of Eclipse is to bring the word "personal" into aviation, making it possible for commercial air passengers to move directly between cities on a quick, affordable and convenient basis. It will also allow pilot owners to enter the world of jet-powered aviation.