EPIC ELIT

Since its well-rounded first flight in the middle of 2007, which lasted more than 40 minutes, the Epic Elite has since made its public debut at AirVenture 2007 at Oshkosh. That first flight gave Epic aviation the chance to explore the aircraft’s control surfaces and low-level performance capabilities. The Epic Elite is a single-pilot, twin-engine VLJ.

The carbon fiber Elite is powered by two Williams Jet FJ-33-4 engines which deliver 1,415 kg of thrust. The new jet can reach 12,497 meters in less than 17 minutes and boasts a top speed of 410 KTAS. Its range at economy cruise is more than 2,963 kilometers with reserves and 603 kg of usable payload after fuel.

The sophisticated cockpit features the all-glass Garmin G900X panels, and the Elite will be RVSM compliant. True to design for all Epic Aircraft, the Elite can take off with all the seats occupied, full fuel and luggage. That's what you would expect from a company whose motto is "Fill it up. Go the distance. Leave nothing behind."

The computer-designed fuselage allows the Elite to move through the air like the jet was not even there, creating a minimum of disturbance and drag, while delivering a smooth ride all the way to 12,497 metres.

The carbon composite construction requires no rivets or stir welding, producing a smooth and fast surface. As a result, the Elite offers more speed and a more functional cabin and cockpit for an airplane that’s as eager to fly as you are.

 What are these "new" planes called Very Light Jets? NBAA defines Very Light Jets (VLJs), as "Jet aircraft weighing 10,000 pounds or less (a distinction from the traditional definition of large aircraft as more than 12,500 pounds and light aircraft as 12,500 pounds or less) and certified for single pilot operations. These aircraft will possess at least some of the following features: (1) advanced cockpit automation, such as moving map GPS and multi-function displays; (2) automated engine and systems management; and (3) integrated autoflight, autopilot and flight-guidance systems." The definition is from the National Business Aircraft Association Training Guidelines for Single Pilot Operations of Very Light Jets and Technically Advanced Aircraft.

Where did Very Light Jets come from? They were spawned by the NASA lead Small Aircraft Transportation System or SATS program. This innovative initiative aims to provide safe air travel in all weather, in new single-pilot aircraft, with advanced navigation systems. SATS proposed the utilization of 5400 smaller airports in the US so we could enjoy point-to-point travel in modern aircraft at affordable prices.

SATS observed that 75 percent of people and cargo pass through 29 hubs which were over-crowded. By using the public airports accessible to almost everyone in the US instead of the hubs, the program promised many advantages:

Separation and sequencing of multiple aircraft operating at airports without ground based radar and communications systems resulting in higher system traffic volume.

Safer aircraft takeoff and landing operations in poor weather at minimally equipped airports and lower minimums for operations because of advanced avionics.

Make more single-pilot operations possible with improved technology.

Incorporate large numbers of small aircraft into the National Airspace System for better airspace utilization.

VLJ and Thurmond Munson

Very Light Jets: I watching the last game at Yankee Stadium last night and when I saw Thurmond Munson's son run across the field. I was inspired to write this article so that perhaps some good

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Talon Air Adds A $4 Million Sikorsky Helicopter To Fleet

Private Aviation Corporation Talon Air has added a new $4 Million Sikorsky helicopter to their current lineup.

The helicopter provides premium comfort and privacy for up to six passengers and two pilots in a “jet-like environment”.

The interior features plush first-class leather seats, amazing wood paneling surround the aircraft, and a 4.5-foot tall cabin with more headroom than a typical helicopter.

Augusta 109

The Augusta 109 is a Helicopter that seats up to 6 passengers and has a range of 485 nautical miles. The Augusta 109 has a cruise speed of 195 miles per hour. The luxurious cabin of the Augusta 109 is perfect to conduct meetings or simply relax.

3-Eurocopter The Eurocopter is a Helicopter that seats up to 4 passengers and has a range of 360 nautical miles. The Eurocopter has a cruise speed of 155 miles per hour. The luxurious cabin of the Eurocopter is perfect to conduct meetings or simply relax.

Sikorsky S-76

The Sikorsky S-76 is a Helicopter that seats up to 6 passengers and has a range of 345 nautical miles. The Sikorsky S-76 has a cruise speed of 155 miles per hour. The luxurious cabin of the Sikorsky S-76 is perfect to conduct meetings or simply relax.

Bell Jet Ranger

The Bell Jet Ranger is a Helicopter that seats up to 4 passengers and has a range of 450 nautical miles. The Bell Jet Ranger has a cruise speed of 150 miles per hour. The luxurious cabin of the Bell Jet Ranger is perfect to conduct meetings or simply relax.

Bell Long Ranger

The Bell Long Ranger is a Helicopter that seats up to 6 passengers and has a range of 450 nautical miles. The Bell Long Ranger has a cruise speed of 150 miles per hour. The luxurious cabin of the Bell Long Ranger is perfect to conduct meetings or simply relax.

MD 902

The MD 902 is a Helicopter that seats up to 6 passengers and has a range of 485 nautical miles. The MD 902 has a cruise speed of 180 miles per hour. The luxurious cabin of the MD 902 is perfect to conduct meetings or simply relax.