Epic Aircraft E1000

Single Turboprop

The Epic E1000 is a high-performance single-engine turboprop built by Epic Aircraft of Bend, Oregon, certified in 2019 after a lengthy development that began as a kit aircraft project in the early 2000s. Powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67A producing 1,200 shaft horsepower, the E1000 is one of the fastest single-engine turboprops in production, with a maximum cruise speed of 325 knots and a service ceiling of 34,000 feet, performance that rivals some light jets. Its all-carbon-fiber composite airframe and pressurized cabin seat up to six occupants in owner-flown luxury, bridging the gap between high-end piston singles and entry-level jets. The E1000's appeal lies in its combination of speed, range (1,650 nautical miles), and operating economics. It competes directly with the Pilatus PC-12 and Daher TBM series but offers a sleeker, more aerodynamic design optimized for speed rather than utility. The aircraft features a Garmin G1000 NXi avionics suite with synthetic vision and advanced autopilot, making it a capable single-pilot IFR platform. Its relatively light maximum takeoff weight of 5,650 pounds keeps it in the owner-flown category while delivering near-jet performance. Epic Aircraft's transition from experimental kit manufacturer to FAA Part 23 certified producer was marked by financial challenges and ownership changes, but the E1000 has found a niche among affluent owner-pilots seeking turbine performance without the complexity of twin-engine operations. The type's carbon construction and modern systems represent a newer generation of general aviation design, though production numbers remain modest compared to established turboprop competitors. SkyMeter has tracked 376 flights across 99 airframes and 74 operators, with EPIC AIRCRAFT LLC the largest observed operator.