Eclipse Aviation, the manufacturer of the Eclipse 500 very light jet (VLJ), has faced numerous challenges throughout its history. Founded in 1998 by Vern Raburn, an entrepreneur and former Microsoft employee, Eclipse aimed to introduce a commercially successful VLJ into the business jet market. Initially based in Scottsdale, Arizona, and later relocating to Albuquerque, New Mexico, Eclipse began designing the Eclipse 500 with its first flight occurring in August 2002.
The company experienced delays due to performance issues with its initial engine choice, leading to a redesign around Pratt & Whitney Canada PW610F-A turbofans. The aircraft was certified in September 2006 and delivered to customers starting the following year. Despite promising specifications such as a maximum operating speed of 285 knots and a maximum altitude of 41,000 feet, financial difficulties plagued Eclipse.
In pursuit of expanding their offerings, Eclipse attempted to develop another model known as the Eclipse 400 or Concept Jet but halted production due to financial struggles. By 2007, layoffs were initiated and founder Vern Raburn resigned in 2008 amid efforts to secure additional investments. Compounding these issues was the closure of DayJet during the Great Recession—a major customer with an order for 1,400 units—leading Eclipse to stop production on its model 500.