P&WC signs long-term agreement with Epic Aircraft Holdings for new E1000 certified turboprop aircraft

Pratt & Whitney Canada (P&WC) has signed a long-term agreement with Epic Aircraft Holdings to power the new E1000 aircraft with its PT6A-67A engine. Epic Aircraft Holdings currently produces the experimental LT aircraft out of its facility in Bend, Oregon. P&WC is a division of United Technologies Corp.

The PT6A-67A turboprop engine is based on the most powerful engine core in this class and incorporates the latest in compressor and hot section materials and design. It provides easy starting and altitude re-lighting in all weather and temperature conditions without the need for large batteries or electronic controls. Its low frontal drag provides the opportunity for significant ram recovery and high speed, critical for this aircraft. The PT6A-67A engine design allows for adaptability in changing propeller output speed to reduce noise, and provides optimal operational flexibility, including the possibility of high-speed low power descents.

Additionally, its reverse-flow installation arrangement provides inherent Foreign Object Damage (FOD) protection and simplifies aircraft certification for known icing conditions due to its variety of already-approved inlet configurations. Its opposed-shaft design provides for truly modular, on-wing maintenance.

P&WC will support Epic through all phases of integration, certification and production of this new, all-composite aircraft to offer operators the best value and achieve optimal efficiency through the powerplant installation. The PT6A-67A will also include a 5 year/2500 hrs warranty.

"P&WC is committed to partnering with its customers to develop innovative products and services to anticipate and meet demand. We are pleased to have been selected to power Epic's E1000 aircraft. Our knowledge of the industry, along with the reliability and flexibility of our products will enable us to deliver the highest value to Epic," said Denis Parisien, Vice President, General Aviation, P&WC.

"The E1000 program refines the fastest production kit aircraft, the Epic LT, to a certified level. By taking this step, Epic will sell this exciting aircraft worldwide to businesses, charter operators, and individuals seeking high performance, luxury and efficient travel," confirmed Douglas King, CEO, Epic Aircraft Holdings. "By combining an outstanding aircraft with an experienced certification team, a world-renowned engine and a secured source of funding, we are confident in our goal of reaching certification by 2015. We are very pleased with this agreement - it underlines the confidence P&WC has in Epic Aircraft Holdings' ability to bring this aircraft to production and our confidence in P&WC as a partner," King added.