E1000 AX gains autoland and autothrottle in Epic feature upgrade

Epic Aircraft revealed the E1000 AX at Sun ‘n Fun, presenting more than 25 additions designed to raise safety and comfort levels.

Epic Aircraft has launched the E1000 AX, a turbine single-engine model that builds on the performance of the E1000 GX and introduces over 25 new features. The aircraft was publicly shown for the first time during Sun ‘n Fun Aerospace Expo in Lakeland, Florida, from 1 to 6 April.

Garmin’s Autothrottle and Autoland systems are among the new additions. Autothrottle manages power from takeoff to touchdown, adjusting automatically for safety-critical conditions such as overspeed, engine failure or gear position. Autoland can activate either by passenger input or automatically if the pilot is incapacitated, navigating terrain and weather before choosing an airport and completing a full engine shutdown.

Other E1000 AX features include automatic yaw damper, electronic brake hold, CoolView windscreen and windows, radar altimeter, updated weather radar, lithium-ion batteries and the PlaneSync-enabled GDL 60. Epic CEO Doug King says: “The E1000 AX is a testament to our team’s passionate and ongoing commitment to adding automated, safety-enhancing tools and technology for pilots and passengers.”

The aircraft is powered by the PT6-67A engine and offers a 333 knot max cruise, 4,000 fpm climb rate and 1,150 lb full fuel payload. King adds: “Our cockpit and cabin spaciousness and comfort is unmatched... pilots as tall as 6’8” can fly comfortably.” The cabin is fitted with high-speed internet via Starlink.

The E1000 AX also includes the Garmin G1000 NXi and GFC 700 autopilot, as well as a new Skyline Collection of paint schemes in more than 200 colours.