University Air Center Retires Last Eclipse 500
University Air Center in Gainesville, FL, has officially retired its final Eclipse 500 from its Part 135-certified fleet, marking the end of an era for the aviation training and charter company. The aircraft, registration N539RM, which had been in service for 17.1 years, was taken out of operation in December 2024, according to ch-aviation research. This retirement comes as the company streamlines its operations and updates its fleet to better serve its diverse clientele.
N539RM (msn 101) was last seen flying on September 15 between Key West International Airport and Gainesville Regional Airport. The aircraft had been a workhorse for University Air Center since 2011. It was the last of two Eclipse 500 jets that the company had operated; the first was retired in 2018. The cessation of its Part 135 certification means that the Eclipse 500 will no longer be available for charter services or flight training under the current regulatory framework.
The Eclipse 500 was well-regarded for its efficiency and modern design during its time in service, and while it once played an important role in University Air Center’s fleet, the retirement reflects the company’s shift toward a more contemporary, streamlined fleet. University Air Center has been working hard to refresh its aircraft inventory, ensuring that passengers and training students have access to state-of-the-art, reliable platforms.
In addition to retiring the Eclipse 500, the company recently also retired its sole Vision Jet. This further streamlines University Air Center’s operations as it focuses on offering a highly curated selection of aircraft. The current fleet now comprises a Citation I/SP, a Citation Jet 3+, two Citation Ultra, a Citation V, and a Cirrus SR-22. These aircraft serve in various capacities, ranging from private jet charters to flight training in general aviation.
University Air Center is known for its high-quality private jet charter services, comprehensive aircraft maintenance offerings, and a well-regarded flight school based in Gainesville, FL. The flight school operates a fleet of general aviation aircraft that enables aspiring pilots to acquire the necessary skills and experience through rigorous training programs. With the retirement of older aircraft like the Eclipse 500 and Vision Jet, the company is positioning itself to adapt to new regulatory demands and market trends while maintaining high operational standards.
By retiring its last Eclipse 500, University Air Center is also ensuring that its fleet remains modern and efficient. This move is part of a larger trend in the aviation industry as many operators update their fleets to maximize fuel efficiency, reduce maintenance costs, and enhance passenger comfort and safety. The decision to shift away from older models signifies the company’s ongoing commitment to excellence and innovation in both flight training and private charter operations.
The retirement of the Eclipse 500 serves as a reminder of how far University Air Center has come since its establishment. Over the years, the company has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of the aviation market, balancing robust training operations with an extensive private charter service.
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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com