FAA certifies Eclipse's first flight simulator

The Federal Aviation Administration has certified Eclipse Aviation Corp.’s first flight simulator, manufactured by Florida’s Opinicus Corp.
The simulator received Level D Full Motion Device certification — the highest qualification the FAA grants for simulators, allowing Eclipse to type certify student pilots without having to train in the Eclipse 500 jet.
Eclipse has now initiated the certification process for its part 142 syllabus and integration of the simulators and learning environment. This second part of certification is scheduled to conclude in late January, at which time Eclipse will conduct its first simulator training class for customers.
Eclipse CEO Vern Raburn said receiving a Level D certification on the first attempt is unprecedented for a new aircraft maker.
Eclipse expects to have three Full Motion Level D simulators in customer operation by April, with the second device slated to receive certification in February and the third one in March.
Eclipse continues to use a Flight Training Device for cockpit procedures training, flight skills assessment and to augment training and improve proficiency.
19/01/08 New Mexico Business Weekly/Charlotte Business Journal, NC, USA