Eclipse Aviation, manufacturer of the world´s first very light jet (VLJ), today announced at its E-rrival customer event that it will start taking orders for the Eclipse 400 single-engine jet, a production version of the Eclipse Concept Jet first displayed at EAA AirVenture 2007. Eclipse Aviation is rewarding its many loyal Eclipse 500 customers by allowing them to be the first to place deposits on an Eclipse 400. Additionally, Eclipse 500 customers will receive an exclusive $ 125,000 discount off the final delivery price provided their deposits are placed prior to July 25, 2008. Deposits from all others will be accepted starting at EAA AirVenture in July 2008.
The Eclipse 400 continues the Eclipse tradition of bringing the most fuel-efficient jet airplanes to the marketplace. At an estimated 330 knots, the environmentally-friendly Eclipse 400 uses less than one pound of fuel per nautical mile — making it the world´s most fuel-efficient jet aircraft.
The four-occupant Eclipse 400 jet cruises safely at 41,000 feet, or three miles above its closest competition. It will feature the most sophisticated flight deck and complete aircraft integration available in general aviation. Its robust V-tail design provides superior handling and it is powered by the Pratt & Whitney Canada PW615F, delivering unrivaled fuel economy.
The Eclipse 400 is priced at $ 1.35 million in June 2008 economics. Similar, single-turbine engine aircraft range from seven to 107 percent more expensive than the Eclipse 400. Deliveries for the Eclipse 400 are expected to begin in 4Q 2011.