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:

Epic Aircraft successfully navigated the complex process of certifying its E1000 GX from an experimental model, emphasizing its robust carbon fiber airframe and performance enhancements.
The company provides comprehensive operational support, including a U.S.-wide service center network, a progressive digital maintenance system, and a safety management system similar to transport-category OEMs.
Epic mandates a thorough pilot training program for all owners, featuring remote learning, simulator training, and flights with mentor pilots, to ensure proficiency in managing the aircraft's high-performance capabilities.

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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.