An Epic Build

The Epic Aircraft factory in Bend, Oregon, transitions from experimental to certified production.

Julie Boatman

Friday, May 05, 2023 at 10:55 AM ET

Verified

The Epic Aircraft factory in Bend, Oregon, transitions from experimental to certified production. [Credit: Jim Barrett]

Key Takeaways:

The Epic E1000 GX's certification as a production aircraft was a challenging process, requiring significant financial backing, but resulted in a robust, high-performance carbon fiber airframe with enhanced engine performance.
Epic provides comprehensive operational support for the E1000 GX, including a progressive maintenance system via ATP Flightdocs, a network of service centers, and a safety management system comparable to those for light jets.
A mandatory and rigorous multi-stage pilot training program, encompassing remote learning, an advanced FlightSafety International simulator, and mentor flights, ensures all E1000 GX owners acquire the necessary "turbine pilot skills" for safe operation.

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I’ll let you in on a secret: In a lot of ways, it’s harder to create a production aircraft out of a fully-fledged experimental model than developing one from scratch—especially under the FAA’s increasingly stringent Part 23 approval parameters. Fortunately, financial support from Epic owner MVF Key Investments never wavered during the process.

Just ask Epic CEO Doug King, who has led the company since 2010. According to King, the enhancements to the engine’s induction system—which improved performance in cruise and climb—were worth it.