Introduction: The Epic LT and Its Legacy
The Epic LT is a high-performance, single-engine turboprop aircraft developed by Epic Aircraft, an American company based in Bend, Oregon. Initially introduced as a kit-built aircraft, the LT quickly gained recognition for its remarkable speed, range, and sleek design. Over time, it evolved into a certified model known as the Epic E1000, which continues to build upon the LT’s legacy. The Epic LT was manufactured from 2009 to 2018 and has since become a popular choice for pilots seeking an aircraft that combines luxury with high performance.
In this article, we will explore the history, design features, performance specifications, and market position of the Epic LT. We will also compare it to its successor, the Epic E1000, and discuss how the aircraft fits into the broader landscape of general aviation turboprops.
1. History and Development of the Epic LT
The Epic LT was born out of a vision to create a high-performance aircraft that could rival business jets in terms of speed and range but at a fraction of the cost. Epic Aircraft began developing the LT in the early 2000s as a kit-built airplane. The concept was simple: offer pilots an opportunity to build their own aircraft while maintaining high standards of performance and luxury.
Kit-Built Aircraft
The kit-built nature of the Epic LT allowed for customization and flexibility in design. Pilots who chose to build their own LTs could work closely with Epic Aircraft’s team to tailor their planes to specific preferences. However, this also meant that no two LTs were exactly alike—each plane had slight variations depending on when it was built and what options were chosen during construction.
Despite being a kit airplane, the LT quickly gained a reputation for its cutting-edge design and exceptional performance. The sleek lines of its fuselage and wing design made it one of the most aesthetically pleasing airplanes in its class. The use of advanced composite materials like carbon fiber allowed for a lightweight yet strong airframe, contributing to its impressive speed and fuel efficiency.
Transition to Certified Aircraft
While initially developed as an experimental-category aircraft, demand for a fully certified version of the LT grew over time. Many pilots were drawn to its performance but were hesitant about flying an experimental aircraft due to regulatory limitations or insurance concerns. In response to this demand, Epic Aircraft began working on a certified version of the LT—what would eventually become known as the Epic E1000.
This transition marked an important milestone for Epic Aircraft as it moved from producing kit planes to manufacturing fully certified aircraft that could compete with established models from companies like Pilatus and Daher.
2. Design Features: A Closer Look at the Epic LT
The design of the Epic LT is one of its most striking features. From its aerodynamic fuselage to its spacious cabin, every aspect of the plane was engineered with both performance and comfort in mind.
Exterior Design
One look at the Epic LT is enough to understand why it stands out on any tarmac. The fuselage is sleek and streamlined, with smooth curves that reduce drag and enhance speed. The wing design features a slight dihedral angle, which improves stability during flight while maintaining agility at lower speeds.
- Wing Span: 13 meters (42.65 feet)
- Exterior Length: 10.92 meters (35.83 feet)
- Tail Height: 3.81 meters (12.50 feet)
The use of carbon fiber composites throughout much of the airframe keeps weight down without sacrificing strength or durability. This material choice also contributes to better fuel efficiency compared to traditional aluminum airframes.
Cabin Design
The cabin of the Epic LT is designed with luxury in mind. With seating for up to six passengers (including the pilot), it offers ample space for both personal use and business travel.
- Cabin Height: 1.5 meters (4.92 feet)
- Cabin Width: 1.4 meters (4.59 feet)
- Cabin Length: 4.6 meters (15.09 feet)
Passengers enjoy large windows that provide excellent visibility during flight, while leather seats add a touch of elegance to the interior. Although there are no separate business or first-class sections in this aircraft, all passengers benefit from high-end materials and thoughtful design choices that prioritize comfort over long distances.
Avionics
One area where individual LTs may differ is in their avionics packages since these could be customized by builders during construction. However, many LTs are equipped with state-of-the-art Garmin avionics systems that provide pilots with all necessary flight information at their fingertips.
The cockpit layout is intuitive and user-friendly, designed for single-pilot operation but capable enough for more advanced missions if needed.
3. Performance Specifications: Speed Meets Efficiency
Where the Epic LT truly shines is in its performance capabilities. Powered by a single Pratt & Whitney PT6-67A turboprop engine producing 1,200 horsepower, this aircraft offers speeds that rival many light jets while maintaining excellent fuel efficiency.
Speed
The maximum cruise speed of the Epic LT is an impressive 340 knots (630 km/h), making it one of the fastest single-engine turboprops on the market during its production years.
- Max Cruise Speed: 340 knots (630 km/h)
- Approach Speed (Vref): Not specified
At normal cruise settings, pilots can expect speeds around 303 KTAS at FL270 with fuel consumption rates around 54 gallons per hour (gph). Pushing up to higher power settings can increase speed but comes at a cost in terms of fuel efficiency.
Range
With a full fuel load (288 gallons or 1,090 liters), the range of the Epic LT extends up to 1,874 nautical miles (3,471 kilometers). This makes it suitable for long-distance flights across continents or between major cities without needing frequent refueling stops.
- Travel Range: 1,874 nautical miles (3,471 kilometers)
- Fuel Economy: 13.12 nautical miles per gallon (6.419 kilometers per liter)
Takeoff and Landing
Despite its high-speed capabilities, the Epic LT performs well on shorter runways thanks to its efficient wing design and powerful engine.
- Takeoff Distance: 488 meters (1,601 feet)
- Landing Distance: 560 meters (1,837 feet)
These short-field capabilities make it versatile enough for operations at smaller airports or remote locations where longer runways may not be available.
Climb Rate and Service Ceiling
The climb rate on this aircraft is equally impressive—upwards of 4,000 feet per minute—allowing it to reach cruising altitude quickly after takeoff.
- Rate of Climb: 4,000 feet per minute (20 meters per second)
- Service Ceiling: 31,000 feet
This combination of speed and altitude capability makes it ideal for avoiding weather patterns or flying above commercial air traffic on longer routes.
In this first part of our deep dive into the Epic LT’s history and features, we’ve covered how this innovative turboprop came into existence as a kit-built aircraft before transitioning into a certified model with exceptional performance characteristics. From its sleek exterior design to its luxurious cabin layout and powerful engine specifications, it’s clear why this plane has earned such high praise from pilots around the world.
Citations:
[1] https://www.planeandpilotmag.com/article/the-epic-lt/
[2] https://www.flightglobal.com/flight-test-epic-lt-experimental-rocket/101115.article
[3] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Epic_E1000
[4] https://epicaircraft.com
4. Market Position and Competitors: Epic LT vs. Rivals
The Epic LT, though a remarkable aircraft in its own right, exists in a competitive market dominated by other high-performance single-engine turboprops like the Pilatus PC-12, Daher TBM series, and Piper Meridian. Each of these aircraft brings its own strengths to the table, making it essential to understand how the Epic LT compares in terms of speed, range, payload, and overall value.
Epic LT vs. Pilatus PC-12
The Pilatus PC-12 is often lauded for its versatility and ruggedness. While the Epic LT focuses on speed and luxury, the PC-12 is designed to handle a variety of missions, from executive transport to cargo hauling and even medical evacuation. The PC-12’s standout feature is its ability to operate from short, unpaved runways, making it ideal for remote operations.
In terms of performance, the Epic LT outpaces the PC-12 in both speed and climb rate:
- Max Cruise Speed: 340 knots (Epic LT) vs. 290 knots (PC-12)
- Rate of Climb: 4,000 feet/min (Epic LT) vs. 1,920 feet/min (PC-12)
However, the PC-12 offers a much larger cabin with seating for up to nine passengers compared to the LT’s six-seat configuration. Additionally, the PC-12 has a higher maximum takeoff weight (10,450 lbs) compared to the LT’s 7,496 lbs, allowing it to carry more payload over longer distances.
Epic LT vs. Daher TBM 910/940
The Daher TBM series is another strong competitor in the single-engine turboprop market. The TBM 910 and 940 models are known for their blend of speed and efficiency. The TBM 940 has a top cruise speed of 330 knots—just slightly slower than the Epic LT’s 340 knots—but it offers superior range at 1,730 nautical miles compared to the LT’s 1,874 nm.
One area where the Epic LT excels over the TBM is in cabin volume:
- Cabin Volume: 184 cu.ft (Epic E1000) vs. 123 cu.ft (TBM 940)[2].
That said, the TBM series offers more advanced avionics packages with integrated autopilot systems like Garmin’s GFC 700 that include envelope protection—a feature that enhances safety by preventing pilots from exceeding certain flight parameters.
Epic LT vs. Piper Meridian
The Piper Meridian is a budget-friendly alternative in this category but lacks some of the performance characteristics of both the Epic LT and its other competitors. With a max cruise speed of around 260 knots and a range of only about 1,000 nautical miles, it falls short when compared to the Epic LT’s capabilities[4]. However, at an introductory price point of $2.2 million (compared to $2.19 million for an Epic LT), it remains an attractive option for pilots looking for an affordable entry into turboprop ownership.
Market Appeal
The Epic LT appeals primarily to pilots who prioritize speed and luxury but don’t need the versatility offered by aircraft like the PC-12 or TBM series. Its sleek design and high-performance engine make it a favorite among owner-pilots who want a fast plane for personal or business travel without sacrificing comfort.
However, one challenge for Epic Aircraft has been building out its support network. As a relatively new player in the certified aircraft market (with certification only achieved in recent years), some potential buyers may hesitate due to concerns about long-term service and parts availability[3]. This is less of an issue with established manufacturers like Pilatus or Daher.
5. The Evolution: From Epic LT to E1000
While the Epic LT was initially introduced as a kit-built aircraft, its success eventually led to the development of a fully certified version—the Epic E1000—which took many of the best features of the LT and improved upon them.
Certification Process
The certification process for an aircraft is rigorous and requires adherence to strict safety standards set by aviation authorities like the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration). One notable difference between the kit-built LT and the certified E1000 is in safety features like stall protection systems. The E1000 includes a stick shaker/pusher system designed to prevent stalls by automatically adjusting control surfaces when necessary[1].
Another key change was in the hydraulic system: while the LT used an electric/hydraulic system for landing gear operation, the E1000 features an engine-driven hydraulic pump that provides continuous flow—allowing faster gear retraction[1].
Performance Enhancements
In terms of performance, both aircraft share similar characteristics since they are powered by the same Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67A engine producing 1,200 horsepower:
- Max Cruise Speed: 340 knots (both models)
- Range: Around 1,874 nautical miles
However, small tweaks have been made to improve efficiency and handling in real-world conditions. For example, deicing boots were added on leading edges without creating extra drag thanks to advanced composite materials used in wing construction[1].
Interior Upgrades
One area where significant improvements were made is in cabin comfort. While early LTs had some minor ergonomic issues—such as limited headroom on one side due to cockpit design—the E1000 addressed these concerns with redesigned seats and better use of interior space[1].
Additionally, while both models offer seating for six passengers, later versions of both planes included more luxurious interiors with leather upholstery and customizable options tailored to individual owners’ preferences.
In this second part of our exploration into the Epic LT’s market position and evolution into its certified counterpart—the E1000—we’ve seen how this high-performance turboprop stacks up against its main competitors like Pilatus’ PC-12 and Daher’s TBM series. While each aircraft has its own strengths depending on mission requirements (speed vs payload vs range), what sets apart both versions of this plane is their combination of jet-like speeds with turboprop efficiency at competitive price points.
In part three we’ll dive deeper into operational costs associated with owning an Epic LT or E1000 as well as exploring pilot experiences flying these remarkable machines!
Citations:
[1] https://www.flyingmag.com/aircraft-turboprops-we-fly-epic-lt/
[2] https://www.avbuyer.com/articles/turboprop-comparisons/epic-e1000-vs-piper-m600-sls-vs-daher-tbm-910-940-113284
[3] https://www.beechtalk.com/forums/viewtopic.php?t=183372
[4] https://www.flyingmag.com/aircraft-turboprops-epic-e1000-versus-world-comparison-specs/
6. Operational Costs and Maintenance: What It Takes to Own an Epic LT
Owning an aircraft like the Epic LT involves more than just the initial purchase price. Operational costs, including fuel, maintenance, insurance, and hangar fees, can add up quickly. In this section, we will break down the various costs associated with owning and operating an Epic LT and compare them to other aircraft in its class.
Fuel Costs
Fuel is one of the most significant ongoing expenses for any aircraft owner. The Epic LT is powered by a Pratt & Whitney PT6-67A turboprop engine, which is known for its reliability and efficiency. However, like all turboprops, it consumes a considerable amount of fuel.
- Fuel Burn Rate: Approximately 54 gallons per hour (gph) at cruise speed.
- Fuel Economy: 13.12 nautical miles per gallon (6.419 kilometers per liter).
With a fuel tank capacity of 288 gallons (1,090 liters), the Epic LT can fly up to 1,874 nautical miles on a full tank. Based on current fuel prices (which can vary significantly by region), operating costs for fuel alone could range from $300 to $400 per hour.
Maintenance Costs
Maintenance is another major factor in the total cost of ownership. The Epic LT’s PT6A engine is renowned for its durability and long time between overhauls (TBO), typically around 3,600 hours. However, periodic inspections and routine maintenance are required to keep the aircraft in top condition.
- Annual Inspection: Costs for an annual inspection on a turboprop like the Epic LT can range from $10,000 to $15,000 depending on the complexity of the work required.
- Engine Overhaul: When the time comes for an engine overhaul (after approximately 3,600 flight hours), owners can expect to pay between $200,000 and $300,000.
Routine maintenance includes oil changes, tire replacements, brake checks, and avionics updates—all of which add to the overall cost of ownership.
Insurance
Insurance premiums for an aircraft like the Epic LT depend on several factors: the pilot’s experience level, how often the plane is flown, where it is based, and how it is used (personal vs. commercial). Given its high performance and value (with a price tag of around $2.19 million), insurance costs can be substantial.
- Estimated Annual Insurance Premiums: $25,000 to $35,000 depending on coverage options.
Pilots with more experience flying turboprops or jets may qualify for lower premiums compared to those with limited hours in high-performance aircraft.
Hangar Fees
Hangar fees vary widely depending on location. In smaller airports or rural areas, hangar space might cost as little as $500 per month. However, in larger metropolitan areas or regions with high demand for hangar space, fees can exceed $1,500 per month.
For an aircraft like the Epic LT—with its large wingspan of 13 meters (42.65 feet)—finding appropriate hangar space is essential to protect it from weather damage and ensure long-term preservation of its composite materials.
Total Operating Costs
When all factors are considered—fuel burn rate at around 54 gph, maintenance costs including inspections and eventual engine overhauls, insurance premiums ranging from $25K-$35K annually, and hangar fees—the total operating cost for an Epic LT can easily exceed $500 per flight hour.
For comparison:
- The Pilatus PC-12 typically has operating costs in the range of $800-$1,000 per hour due to its larger size and more complex systems.
- The Daher TBM series operates at around $600-$700 per hour thanks to its slightly smaller engine and more efficient design.
While these numbers may seem high at first glance, they are relatively competitive within the high-performance turboprop market—especially when considering that jets offering similar speed often have much higher operating costs due to increased fuel consumption and maintenance complexity.
7. Pilot Experience: Flying the Epic LT
One of the most appealing aspects of owning an Epic LT is the sheer joy of flying it. Pilots who have flown this aircraft consistently praise its handling characteristics and performance capabilities. In this section, we’ll explore what it’s like to fly an Epic LT from takeoff to landing.
Takeoff Performance
With a powerful 1,200-horsepower Pratt & Whitney PT6A engine, the Epic LT offers impressive takeoff performance even at maximum takeoff weight (7,496 lbs). The aircraft requires only about 488 meters (1,601 feet) of runway for takeoff—a relatively short distance considering its size and power.
Pilots report that throttle response is immediate and smooth during takeoff roll. The aircraft accelerates rapidly down the runway before lifting off into a steep climb at a rate of up to 4,000 feet per minute—a climb rate that rivals many light jets.
Cruising Altitude and Speed
Once airborne and climbing through the lower altitudes toward its service ceiling of 31,000 feet, pilots appreciate how stable yet responsive the aircraft feels at higher speeds. At cruising altitude (typically around 27,000 feet), the Epic LT can maintain a cruise speed of up to 340 knots (630 km/h)—one of the fastest speeds available in any single-engine turboprop.
The cockpit layout is designed with simplicity in mind; many LTs are equipped with Garmin avionics systems that provide comprehensive flight data on large displays while minimizing clutter. This makes managing navigation tasks easier during long flights or in busy airspace environments.
Handling Characteristics
Pilots often describe flying the Epic LT as being both exhilarating and forgiving—a rare combination in high-performance aircraft. The controls are well-balanced with just enough feedback through control surfaces to give pilots confidence without feeling overly sensitive or twitchy at higher speeds.
In turbulent conditions or when flying through weather systems at altitude (the plane is equipped with deicing boots), pilots note that it remains stable without excessive buffeting or yawing motions—thanks in part to its advanced aerodynamic design featuring a slight dihedral wing angle for added stability during turns or crosswinds.
Landing Performance
Landing an Epic LT requires slightly more runway than takeoff due to its higher approach speeds—but not by much:
- Landing Distance: Approximately 560 meters (1,837 feet).
The approach speed varies depending on weight but typically ranges between 90-100 knots—a manageable speed even for less experienced pilots transitioning from piston-engine planes into turboprops like this one.
The landing gear system (whether electric/hydraulic on earlier models or fully hydraulic on later versions) deploys smoothly without creating excessive drag during descent phases—allowing pilots ample time to adjust their descent rates accordingly before touching down gently onto shorter runways if necessary.
In this third part of our exploration into owning and flying an Epic LT—one thing becomes clear: while operational costs may be substantial due largely in part due to fuel consumption rates typical among turboprops—the experience itself makes it worth every penny spent! From exhilarating climbs after takeoff powered by Pratt & Whitney’s reliable PT6A engine—to cruising comfortably above commercial air traffic en route towards distant destinations—the sheer joy derived from piloting such finely tuned machines cannot be understated!
8. The Future of the Epic LT and Epic Aircraft
As we conclude our exploration of the Epic LT, it’s important to look toward the future of both the aircraft and its manufacturer, Epic Aircraft. While the Epic LT itself is no longer in production, its legacy lives on through the Epic E1000, a fully certified version that builds upon the LT’s strengths while addressing some of its limitations. In this section, we will discuss the future prospects for Epic Aircraft, potential upgrades or modifications to existing LTs, and how the company plans to compete in an evolving market.
Epic E1000: The Certified Successor
The transition from the kit-built Epic LT to the certified Epic E1000 marked a significant milestone for Epic Aircraft. The E1000 retains much of what made the LT so popular—its speed, range, and sleek design—but incorporates additional safety features and improvements required for certification. Since receiving FAA certification in 2019, the E1000 has gained traction in the market as a viable competitor to other high-performance turboprops like the Pilatus PC-12 and Daher TBM series.
One of the key selling points of the E1000 is its ability to offer jet-like performance at a fraction of the cost. With a price tag of around $3.25 million (as of 2024), it remains competitive with other turboprops while offering superior speed and range. The aircraft’s Pratt & Whitney PT6A-67A engine continues to be a reliable workhorse, providing 1,200 horsepower and enabling a cruise speed of up to 333 knots (616 km/h)—just slightly lower than the LT’s 340 knots but still impressive for its class.
Technological Advancements
As technology continues to evolve, so too does the potential for upgrades and enhancements to both new aircraft and existing models like the Epic LT. One area where significant advancements are being made is in avionics systems. Many LTs were originally equipped with Garmin G1000 avionics suites, but newer systems like Garmin’s G3000 or even G5000 could offer enhanced functionality for pilots seeking more advanced navigation tools or better integration with autopilot systems.
Additionally, improvements in materials science could lead to lighter, stronger airframes that further enhance fuel efficiency and performance. While carbon fiber composites are already used extensively in both the LT and E1000 models, ongoing research into next-generation composites could reduce weight even further without compromising strength or durability.
Sustainability Initiatives
The aviation industry as a whole is under increasing pressure to reduce its environmental footprint. While turboprops like the Epic LT are generally more fuel-efficient than jets, there is still room for improvement when it comes to sustainability. One potential avenue for reducing emissions is through the development of hybrid or fully electric propulsion systems.
While such technologies are still in their infancy when it comes to larger aircraft like turboprops, several companies are working on electric propulsion solutions that could eventually be adapted for use in high-performance planes like the Epic LT or E1000. In addition to reducing emissions, these systems could also lower operating costs by reducing reliance on traditional jet fuel—an attractive proposition for both private owners and commercial operators alike.
Aftermarket Support and Modifications
For current owners of Epic LTs, aftermarket support will be crucial as their aircraft age. While Epic Aircraft continues to provide parts and service for both kit-built LTs and certified E1000s, some owners may seek third-party modifications or upgrades to keep their planes competitive with newer models.
Popular modifications include:
- Avionics Upgrades: As mentioned earlier, upgrading from older Garmin G1000 systems to newer G3000 or G5000 suites can provide enhanced situational awareness and autopilot functionality.
- Interior Refurbishments: Many owners opt to refresh their cabins with new upholstery or updated seating configurations as their planes age.
- Engine Enhancements: While the PT6A-67A engine remains one of the most reliable turboprop engines available today, some owners may explore performance-enhancing modifications like improved propellers or engine tuning.
Competing in an Evolving Market
The general aviation market is constantly evolving as new technologies emerge and customer preferences shift. While turboprops like the Epic LT have long been favored for their combination of speed, range, and efficiency, there is growing interest in alternative aircraft types—particularly light jets—that offer similar performance characteristics with even faster speeds.
For example:
- The Cirrus Vision Jet, while not as fast as an Epic LT (with a max cruise speed of around 300 knots), offers jet propulsion and advanced safety features like a whole-airplane parachute system.
- The HondaJet Elite II, another light jet competitor, offers speeds up to 422 knots with a range of 1,547 nautical miles—making it an attractive option for those who prioritize speed over range.
Despite these competitors, turboprops remain popular due to their lower operating costs compared to jets—especially on shorter routes where higher fuel consumption rates make jets less economical. As long as fuel efficiency remains a priority for many buyers in this segment (particularly owner-pilots), planes like the Epic LT and E1000 will continue to have a place in general aviation.
9. Frequently Asked Questions About the Epic LT
To wrap up our comprehensive look at the Epic LT, here are some frequently asked questions (FAQs) that potential buyers or aviation enthusiasts might have about this aircraft:
1. What is the difference between the Epic LT and E1000?
The primary difference between these two models is that the Epic LT was originally sold as a kit-built aircraft (meaning owners had to assemble it themselves), while the E1000 is a fully certified production model built entirely by Epic Aircraft. The E1000 also includes additional safety features required for certification—such as stall protection systems—and has undergone rigorous testing by aviation authorities like the FAA.
2. How fast can an Epic LT fly?
The maximum cruise speed of an Epic LT is approximately 340 knots (630 km/h), making it one of the fastest single-engine turboprop aircraft ever produced.
3. What is the range of an Epic LT?
With full fuel tanks (288 gallons or 1,090 liters), an Epic LT can fly up to 1,874 nautical miles (3,471 kilometers) without needing to refuel—making it suitable for long-distance flights between major cities or across continents.
4. How much does it cost to own an Epic LT?
While purchase prices for used LTs vary depending on condition and customization options chosen during construction (typically around $2 million), operating costs—including fuel burn rates around 54 gallons per hour—can add up quickly. Total operating costs are estimated at around $500 per flight hour when factoring in maintenance expenses like annual inspections or engine overhauls after approximately 3,600 flight hours.
5. Is there aftermarket support available for kit-built LTs?
Yes! Although no longer produced new since transitioning into certified production models under “E-series” branding—the original manufacturer still offers parts/service support alongside third-party providers specializing specifically within niche markets catering towards experimental-class flyers seeking bespoke upgrade packages tailored uniquely towards individual needs/preferences!
Conclusion
The Epic LT stands out as one of aviation’s most impressive single-engine turboprop designs—a true blend between luxury comfort combined alongside jet-like speeds—all within affordable operational ranges compared against similarly priced alternatives found elsewhere within today’s competitive marketplace! Whether considering purchasing pre-owned examples still available secondhand—or opting instead towards newer certified variants under “E-series” branding—the sheer joy derived from owning/flying such finely tuned machines cannot easily be matched elsewhere!