Eclipse's New Concept Has Race Car Features

Since Eclipse Aviation unveiled its new single-engine turbofan powered concept jet at last month's EAA AirVenture, the aircraft has been showcased among prospective users to better understand its marketplace potential.

The new concept will compete in the emerging single-engine jet category, according to a company statement. Its design enables a cruising altitude of 41,000 feet, which is significantly high for a light sport aircraft, says Eclipse spokesman Andrew Broom.

“It's appealing for the person who only needs four seats and wants to go fast,” Broom says. “It's a little sports car.”

The new concept will likely appeal to owner operators, corporate aircraft and air taxi markets, he adds.

It operates with the new Avio NG system and several key elements are found on the Eclipse 500. Eclipse contracted Swift Engineering, which has a strong history in race car engineering, to help design the jet.

Its estimated top speed is 345 knots and range is 1,250 nautical miles. The empennage features an external mounted engine pod and v-tail.