Epic Aircraft Delivers 100th Certified Aircraft

By Garth Calitz

When an aircraft manufacturer reaches a three-digit delivery milestone, it signifies the maturation of a product, production system, and owner community. For Epic Aircraft, delivering its 100th certified aircraft marks its evolution from a boutique builder to a sustained producer of high-performance turboprops. On September 19, 2025, Epic announced this milestone at its 11th Annual Odyssey Fly-In in Bend, Oregon, revealing that the 100th aircraft, an E1000 AX with a special commemorative design, will be based in Texas.

Epic's narrative highlights key themes of modern general aviation success: product-led differentiation, focused craftsmanship, rapid certification, and an engaged owner community. The E1000 series, featuring all-composite, single-engine turboprops with performance akin to light twins and small jets, has driven demand since its initial launch. Certified deliveries began in 2020, and within five years, Epic introduced two next-generation models, the E1000 GX and E1000 AX, showcasing a rapid development pace in an industry where such processes typically take much longer.

Beyond the headline of "100 delivered," statistics reveal a deeper narrative about the aircraft's usage and acceptance. The E1000 fleet has accumulated over 41,000 flight hours, indicating active operational use. This utilisation is crucial for a small manufacturer, as each hour flown offers valuable customer feedback, operational data, and validation of the aircraft's reliability and maintainability. It also aids prospective buyers by providing reference pilots, owner testimonials, and a proven track record, which are more persuasive than promotional materials.

The delivery of the 100th unit, the E1000 AX, marks a significant milestone in the company's strategy. The AX, the company's most advanced model, includes Garmin's autothrottle and autoland systems, enhancing avionics and safety. It offers improved comfort, speed, and mission flexibility, with impressive climb rates, cruise speeds, and range. This positions it as a top choice for owner-pilots and light corporate missions. Celebrating this milestone with the AX underscores Epic's ambition to lead in single-engine turboprop technology.

Reaching 100 certified deliveries in five years is a major achievement for Epic, highlighting its strong program management and disciplined production approach. Aircraft manufacturing demands supply-chain orchestration, quality control, and robust support systems. Epic's Bend, Oregon headquarters is key to their engineering and manufacturing success, as evidenced by meeting production targets and completing two additional certifications (GX and AX).

Epic's success is significantly bolstered by community-building, exemplified by the annual Odyssey Fly-In. This event gathers owners, pilots, engineers, and dealers, fostering shared knowledge, peer support, and brand loyalty. By turning customers into advocates, the fly-in offers hands-on training, real-time feedback with engineers, and social proof for potential buyers. Announcing the delivery milestone at the Odyssey Fly-In was fitting, as it allowed Epic to celebrate with those who contributed to the aircraft's success.

“Achieving this delivery milestone underscores the strength of demand for our aircraft,” said Epic Aircraft CEO Doug King. “We reached our 100th certified aircraft faster than anyone imagined. From our first to our 100th aircraft, each certified Epic reflects the innovation, passion, and commitment of our employees—and the belief of our owner community. Each delivery is more than an aircraft. It’s the beginning of a new adventure.”

Milestones are inflexion points prompting strategic questions for Epic. Key considerations include: scaling production to balance demand with sustainable throughput while maintaining high-quality standards; expanding support infrastructure to accommodate diverse climates and regulatory environments; and managing innovation to ensure rapid product evolution without increasing support complexity. Recent actions, such as certifying avionics and radar options, introducing new paint and interior options, and reporting strong sales, indicate Epic's awareness of these challenges.

Epic's milestone can be viewed through market positioning. The single-engine turboprop market appeals to owner-pilots seeking high performance without the complexity of multi-engine jets and to fleets needing efficient regional aircraft. Epic's high cruise speeds, long range, and climb rates allow it to compete with turboprops and some light jets. However, its premium composite construction, advanced avionics, and bespoke finishes come at a cost. The 100th delivery indicates strong demand from buyers willing to pay for Epic's combination of speed, range, and modern systems, signalling a positive outlook for the single-engine turboprop segment.

The human component, pilots, technicians, and production workers, is crucial to Epic’s growth, underscoring the importance of skilled workforces in regional aerospace clusters like Bend, Oregon, USA. Talented composite technicians, avionics installers, and test pilots are key to small-aircraft program success. As Epic’s delivery numbers rise, focusing on workforce development, apprenticeship programs, and attracting experienced aerospace professionals is essential. Public communications and fly-in events also aid in recruiting and retaining talent by conveying momentum and purpose.

Epic's 100th aircraft marks a significant milestone in general aviation, demonstrating that small manufacturers with distinct products and an engaged community can achieve substantial production quickly. It highlights that quality and innovation attract buyers who value performance, and confirms that the E1000 family has transitioned from prototype to operational reality. This milestone is both a celebration and a step towards sustaining growth, supporting the fleet and ensuring high-performance flying remains accessible, reliable, and safe.