Epic Aircraft announced on July 15 that it had received the type certificate from the FAA for its next generation version of the E1000, the GX. The E1000 GX—which replaces the original E1000—features the updated Garmin GFCTM 700 automated flight control system and a Hartzell 5-blade composite propeller. The GFCTM’s advanced altitude and heading reference system (AHRS) is fully-integrated with the Garmin G1000 NXi flight deck, providing flight director, autopilot, yaw damper, automatic trim and coupled go-around capabilities as well as emergency descent protection.
Epic Aircraft CEO Doug King said, “We are also seeing benefits from the Hartzell 5-blade including improved speed, climb, range, payload and takeoff performance.” He added that the aircraft has been delivering quieter operations both inside and outside the cabin. The company said in news release, “The Hartzell 5-blade propeller provides stronger, composite resin-injected blades that allow for a thinner, wider airfoil which optimizes flight performance, offering faster takeoff acceleration and enhanced speed, versatility and comfort.
