Eclipse Aviation says that its Eclipse 500 aircraft has completed six test flights, logging five hours in the air at speeds from 85 knots to 183 knots and altitudes up to 15,000 feet.

The first phase testing focused on low speed handling characteristics and systems operations. Eclipse says that Aircraft 100 was examined in highly turbulent conditions and the landing gear was cycled throughout the speed range, including emergency extensions.

Vern Raburn, president and ceo of Eclipse Aviation said: “The advanced data acquisition system

on aircraft 100 has allowed us to learn more about the aero-dynamic characteristics and systems operations on this jet in one week, than we would be able to discover over many months using traditional limited telemetry systems and flight test procedures.

“The results are very positive and prove that the airframe programme is on track despite earlier engine vendor problems.”