Problems Not With Eclipse 500, But With Conformity Process

When the FAA issues a production certificate for an aircraft, the company must be able to ensure that every airplane that comes off the line conforms exactly to the type design that the FAA approved. The FAA’s review process to ensure conformity is “very well defined, detailed and unforgiving,” Eclipse Aviation CEO Vern Raburn says. The FAA found problems with Eclipse’s conformity process — not the airplane itself — and the company must rectify those issues before it can start deliveries. Eclipse is working closely with the FAA to create a plan of action to address all of the concerns. “We will work our way through this issue,” Raburn wrote. The FAA team will return to Eclipse during the week of Dec. 4 to begin the formal certification process, he says. “We are asking that all of our customers work with us and support us during this transition from a development company to a production company,” Raburn concludes in the letter. “Now is the time for shared communication and mutual support…As our production process moves up the learning curve, we will project more specific aircraft delivery dates. Eclipse is focused and committed to complete this production certification process and deliver your aircraft.”