I was very surprised to read that Eclipse Aviation founder and CEO, Vern Raburn is stepping down from his position to be replaced by Roel Pieper. (Raburn will stay with the company, working in a different position.)

In a way, this is good news. A lack of funding has challenged more than one VLJ startup. Raburn stepping down was part of a deal to secure funding for his company. The company is playing this as: "Raburn did a great job creating a new class of aircraft and now we're going to keep that work going."

I'd say that Raburn has certainly done well for himself so far. According to Eclipse's air taxi company and others plan to put it into service soon. Based on the growing market, they have announced development of the Eclipse 400 as well.

I'm a little sad to see Raburn taken from the leading roll in his company producing his aircraft for his industry. It sounds like he's more committed to seeing his dream succeed than being the king of the hill though. I certainly respect him for that.