The Federal Aviation Administration approved Eclipse Aviation’s Eclipse 500, a very light jet, despite some significant design flaws, and overruled voiced concerns from government engineers, test pilots and inspectors. The Transportation Department Inspector General Calvin Scovel said that Federal Aviation Administration officials quickly certified the Eclipse 500 very light jet for flight, although there were “unresolved design problems.” Problems were also found in the production process with Eclipse Aviation.
It has been suggested that a cozy relationship between the manufacturer and the FAA have caused this problem. The committee of investigators said that the FAA scrutinizes established manufacturers more-so than new manufacturers. It has been suggested that the FAA’s aircraft approval system be reviewed.
Today, 250 jets are currently in service. The recently bankrupt DayJet, based in Boca Raton, FL, had 239 orders for the aircraft, and was expected to place 70 more. The aircraft seats 5 to 10 people, and flies up to 425 miles per hour.
Over 80 service complaints, from operators of the aircraft, have been filed against Eclipse Aviation. Flaws were found. On June 5, a throttle failed while on approach to Chicago-Midway airport. The throttle was stuck at maximum power. The pilots were able to make an emergency landing with the aircraft. The event caused the National Transportation Safety Board (NTSB) and the FAA to issue a safety directive relating to the throttle failure.
I’ve had the chance to see this aircraft at my home airport. I’ve also seen on approach at Boca-Raton Executive Airport. Initially, I thought it was a neat-looking concept jet. However, just because a plane is neat looking, doesn’t mean it is safe. The FAA’s decision to approve this jet reeks havoc in my mind. It appears as though the FAA has opened the door up for ‘schmoozing.’ And, needless to say, it seems a bit reckless and risky to have lower standards for new manufacturers. It is my hope that this issue is corrected.
There are two sides to every issue. This has drawn attention to the FAA and their tolerance and respect of safety for the general public. It is, after-all, the FAA’s first and foremost duty to ensure public safety in the air.
Image: flickr.com
