Eclipse Aviation News
Eclipse Aviation expects to employ approximately 2000 people by 2007 for the manufacture of its small, highly efficient aircraft. Approximately 20 people will be employed in Albuquerque this year. Eclipse begins commercial delivery of its aircraft in 2003.
Although community and company officials did not divulge the details of the incentive package, they indicated that the overall value would likely be in excess of $100 million over the next 20 years. The package was delivered in large part due to unwavering support from the City of Albuquerque, City of Albuquerque Aviation Department, the State of New Mexico and the State of New Mexico Economic Development Department.
A key factor in the company's decision was its confidence in Albuquerque's ability to provide and recruit the technical expertise needed for the manufacture of its small, highly efficient aircraft. Albuquerque features a wealth of technical talent from resources such as Sandia National Laboratories, The Air Force Laboratories Philips Site and the many aerospace companies with operations in New Mexico.
Albuquerque Economic Development, Inc. Chairman Bob Murphy believes that Eclipse Aviation is an ideal fit for the metro area. "Eclipse Aviation is a visionary company with a world-class management team," said Murphy. "We could not ask for a better technology partner. AED is excited about the prospect of Eclipse capitalizing on the technology assets and human capital that Albuquerque has to offer."
"Eclipse Aviation was courted by cities all over the country," said Vern Raburn, president and CEO of Eclipse. "Albuquerque's reputation for technological innovation, the caliber of its workforce and its exceptional quality of life made it our first choice."
Eclipse Aviation will relocate to Albuquerque this year from its temporary headquarters in Scottsdale, Arizona. The company plans to build its headquarters and manufacturing facilities at Double Eagle II Airport, but will initially occupy existing facilities located at Albuquerque's Sunport Airport.
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.