Air taxi operator DayJet abruptly ceased operations Sept. 19, citing both an inability to obtain financing and supplier Eclipse Aviation’s failure to install missing equipment and make needed repairs. The Part 135 carrier, based in Boca Raton, Fla., was the largest customer of the Eclipse 500 Very Light Jet, at one time ordering 1,400 aircraft. News reports said DayJet was operating 28 aircraft at the time of the shutdown. In a message to customers on its Web site, DayJet said its management attempted to secure financing until the day before the announcement, but was unable to do so. The company said resuming operations is “possible, but with the current condition in the capital markets, it is unlikely at this time.” Eclipse Aviation, Albuquerque, N.M., in a statement Monday reassured customers that its business model is strong. "While DayJet was Eclipse’s largest customer, Eclipse’s business model and success has never relied solely on DayJet. Eclipse still has hundreds of orders to fill independent of DayJet, and existing customers will be happy and eager to move up in line. … The air taxi market is now a proven market and Eclipse anticipates other companies will look at the market to determine how the needs of the regional executive traveler can be realized."