The Eclipse 550 Enters Production

Eclipse Aerospace has officially begun production of new versions of its Eclipse 550 personal jet. It features new computer systems, auto-throttles, and integrated avionics that offer synthetic vision, redundant flight-management systems, and terrain-proximity warnings, in addition to iPad compatibility. The approximately $2.7 million, twin-engine jet accommodates six people, can reach speeds up to 430 mph, and has a range of nearly 1,300 miles. Deliveries are scheduled for mid-2013, and Eclipse Aerospace plans to produce between 50 and 100 of the aircraft annually starting in 2014.