Epic Aircraft last week announced the first two customer deliveries of the now fully-certified E1000 single-engine turbo-prop (SETP).
The E1000 started life as a kit-only aircraft, but was certified by the US Federal Aviation Administration in November 2019. COVID-19 issues delayed the shipments to customers until February this year.
"Completing these deliveries is a tremendous milestone for our company and our customers," Epic CEO Doug King said. "The E1000 is a remarkable aircraft and seeing the enthusiasm of our owners as they take delivery is extremely gratifying.
"This is the successful culmination of eight years of hard work, extensive investment, and a passionate belief in our product."
The six-seat E1000 is powered by a 1200-shp Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67A, which gives the all-composite aircraft a top speed of 330 KTAS and a full-fuel payload of 500 kg. It is certified for reduced vertical separation minima (RVSM) airspace up to FL340 and has an economy-cruise range of 1650 nm.
New owner Lawrence Brooke said the E1000 had advantages over his executive jet.
"This is a true performance aircraft able to compete directly with my Phenom 100, but at less than half the operating cost," Brooke said. "Plus, it provides access to shorter airstrips that jets just can't reach."
Epic currently holds deposits from customers in several countries including USA, Canada, Mexico, Central/South America, Russia and South Africa.