Eclipse Woes Drive VLJ Forecast Downward

Germany-based aerospace consultant PMI-Media lowered its estimated very light jet (VLJ) delivery schedule for this year, based largely on production difficulties encountered by Eclipse Aviation. In its latest report, PMI predicts total VLJ industry deliveries this year will be cut nearly in half, from 205 to 125. Looking toward the future, the report shows an order backlog of more than 4,000 VLJs from 14 different firms. The Eclipse 500 accounts for more than half of that number, leading the consultants to speculate that continued delivery delays could result in a surge of orders for more experienced airframers.