Epic Aircraft, manufacturer of high performance, all carbon fiber, singleengine turboprop aircraft, today announced it has successfully completed E1000 structural testing, concluding one of the more demanding phases of its E1000 type certification (TC) program. "The structural test phase of our program took longer than anticipated," said Epic CEO, Doug King. "That's because our all carbon fiber design must conform to FAA-mandated structural strength requirements that are much higher than those imposed on metal aircraft."

The company anticipates receiving FAA Type Inspection Authorization (TIA) this month. TIA is a crucial precursor to type certification, as it confirms the aircraft design, structural and flight test results demonstrate compliance with FAA regulations. It also signifies confidence in the program by allowing FAA pilots on board the aircraft to conduct the final phases of conformity inspections and flight testing.

"We are on the final stretch," confirms King. "We have flown over 625 hours in our two flight test articles, meeting most of the required airworthiness, performance and handling characteristics. We are ready to conclude this final phase of FAA-conforming flight testing, keeping us on track for type certification later this year."

With structural testing complete, the E1000 manufacturing team is now shifting focus entirely toward production certification. "We have doubled our composite fabrication capacity and refined workflows to support planned production volumes of 50 aircraft per year," said King. "We have added tooling, curing ovens, paint booths, storage freezers, CNC machinery, composite cutting and laser templating tools, as well as inspection, bonding and assembly equipment. We are currently running two production work shifts, with plans to eventually support around-the-clock-production capacity."

Epic has also implemented sophisticated employee training programs to maintain, develop and grow its workforce. The company plans to begin converting the earliest of its 85 reservations into sales contracts later this summer to support initial customer deliveries in early 2019.

Competitively priced at $3.25 million fully-equipped, Epic offers one of the lowest acquisition costs in its category. "Carbon fiber gives us a tremendous advantage," adds King. "It's fast, it's sleek, it's strong, and it's easier to maintain. It requires significantly fewer parts than traditional metal aircraft, with a streamlined assembly process. That combination of beauty, strength and performance at an affordable price truly sets us apart in the marketplace."