The Total Eclipse 500 is an upgraded variant of the original Eclipse 500 very light jet (VLJ) developed by Eclipse Aviation, later supported and refurbished by Eclipse Aerospace. The original Eclipse 500 entered service in 2006 but production ceased in 2008 following the manufacturer’s bankruptcy. Eclipse Aerospace reintroduced the aircraft as the “Total Eclipse” program in 2010, refurbishing existing airframes with avionics, systems, and interior upgrades that brought them to the latest performance and safety standards.
The Total Eclipse 500 retained the same airframe and aerodynamic profile as the baseline Eclipse 500 but incorporated Garmin GPS-based navigation capability, enhanced avionics through the Avio IFMS (Integrated Flight Management System), and updated interior finishes. Some aircraft received optional anti-skid braking systems and other incremental improvements.
Powered by two Pratt & Whitney Canada PW610F turbofan engines, each producing 900 pounds of thrust, the Total Eclipse 500 has a maximum cruise speed of 371 knots, a range of approximately 1,125 nautical miles, and a maximum takeoff weight (MTOW) of 6,000 pounds. The pressurized cabin typically accommodates four passengers in an executive configuration, although seating for up to five can be arranged.
As a category, the Total Eclipse 500 is classified as a very light jet, positioned for owner-operators, corporate flight departments, and air taxi operators seeking jet performance with low operating costs.
