VLJ Still A Work In Progress

Although the Eclipse 500 is fully certified for day and night, single-pilot, VFR, IFR and RVSM operations, some systems are still evolving. The Avio avionics system will be supplemented by Garmin 496 handheld units to provide operators with GPS functionality until the Avio system can take over that function, Broom said. Early copies will also feature the original small tip tanks; the 500 will be retrofitted with larger tanks when they become available next year, Broom said. Flight into known icing should be approved next year, too, he added. Eclipse was also in the news this week for filing a lawsuit against two former employees who have opened their own avionics company. Eclipse says the two developed their product and their business plan while still working for Eclipse, which according to the employment agreement they signed gives Eclipse ownership of the product. The Albuquerque Journal said it tried to reach one of the former employees for comment, but its calls were not returned. Broom also declined to comment on the matter.