Personalized Pilot Training
Pilot training is just as important as the design of the aircraft. Pilot proficiency and detailed knowledge of the aircraft’s many safety systems are critical components to achieving Epic’s goal of unblemished flight safety.

Ground School
Formal ground training takes place at the Epic Build Center in Bend, Oregon.  Ground school begins when the build process commences. The build process is an extremely effective learning tool, as the Epic LT builders/pilots study and learn the aircraft systems from the “inside out”. As a result, pilots have already built a wealth of Epic aircraft knowledge before stepping foot in the classroom or into the airplane.

During the classroom course, pilots learn the basics of the aircraft systems, environmental factors, human factors and required maintenance. Epic also discusses aspects of the aircraft that are Epic specific, including operations, check lists, weight and balance issues, memory items and speed limits.

Ground School
• Aircraft Systems
• Glass Cockpit - EFIS
• Flight Controls
• Landing Gear and Brakes
• Pressurization
• Autopilot
• Turbine Powerplant Training
• Propeller Limitations
• Fuel Systems
• Electrical Systems
• De-ice Systems and Procedures
• Maintenance Procedures
• Human Factors
• Environmental Factors

Epic Unique Topics
• Operations POH
• Checklists
• V-Speeds
• Memory Items
• Weight & Balance Issues

Initial Flight Training
The first component of flight training is the Epic Flight Evaluation, in which Epic reviews each pilot’s qualifications:  previous flight training, logbook of flight hours, ratings, endorsements and currency. These credentials determine the level of instruction required and which training resources are most appropriate.  Pilot experience in complex aircraft, such as turbine aircraft, multi-engine pressurized aircraft, and airliners often provide a quicker path to proficiency. After the pilot evaluation, flight instructors develop a personalized training plan.

Once the aircraft has been evaluated by the FAA, it must fly a certain number of hours in close proximity to the factory. This is an ideal time to gain flight familiarization near the Epic Build Center.

Proficiency Evaluation
Epic is constantly concerned about the safety of our customers, pilots and passengers. Epic’s training is intended to meet or exceed FAA certified standards. We are committed to making resources available to improve pilot proficiency before the builder takes delivery of the aircraft. These resources include additional flight instruction, classroom time and the mentor program.

Mentor
Some Epic customers may not have the experience or proficiency to fly a high performance aircraft.  The transition from formal training can be facilitated by a mentor flying along side. A typical mentor is a very high time, experienced pilot, perhaps retired from the military or airlines. Epic can help provide turbine experienced mentors whenever needed.

Some customers may opt to train their professional pilots to be the mentor pilot.  An experienced turboprop pilot may be able to make a seamless transition to an Epic Aircraft.  These pilots, with the specialized training, can become excellent mentors.

Recurrent Training
In order to maintain flight safety, pilot proficiency and insurability, Epic supports ongoing training.  We are committed to making semi-annual and/or annual recurrent training available to Epic pilots. Many insurance policies require recurrent training. Epic believes these requirements are a perfect opportunity to receive not just flight training, but updates on systems, operation techniques and information exchanges with fellow Epic owners. Regional training resources are available from industry-respected professionals when busy schedules do not allow a flight to Bend, Oregon.

Flight Training Syllabus
The FAA and industry participants have developed a training program referred to as FITS (FAA Industry Training Standards). The FITS program has been viewed as a highly effective framework of flight instruction and relies heavily on ‘scenario-based’ training. Scenario training allows a pilot to be briefed and debriefed on performing proper responses to actual situations. Pilots are given real-world situations faced in actual flights. Lessons can include unexpected route changes, equipment issues, weather decisions and more.  The FITS program also allows a better evaluation by the training professional in determining pilot proficiency and individualized training goals. 

An example of the flight training outline for the Epic:
• Epic Transition Course Prerequisites
• Pre-Training Survey and Course Preparation
• Course Elements
• Standards of Performance
• Ground Training
• Flight Training
• FLIGHT LESSON:  IFR In An Epic Aircraft
• FLIGHT LESSON:  Emergency Procedures
• FLIGHT LESSON:  High Altitude
• FLIGHT LESSON:  Bringing It All Together
• Flight Risk Assessment

Epic AIR is extremely proud to have created a revolutionary aircraft design. It is equally important to us that each aircraft is operated with the highest standards of safety and professionalism. That goal is reflected throughout Epic’s Personalized Pilot Training Program.