Aircraft Investor Resources (AIR) has begun accepting deposits for the new Dynasty, the certified version of the Epic LT single engine turboprop. The high performance composite aircraft will begin certification tests this fall in Calgary, Alberta as part of a new Canadian aircraft certification program designed specifically for general aviation (GA). Final certification from Transport Canada is expected in 2008.

"The new Dynasty will undergo the rigorous certification process much more quickly in this new Canadian program," said Rick Schrameck, AIR's Chief Executive Officer. "Reciprocity agreements between Transport Canada and the Federal Aviation Administration make this certification valid in both the United States and Canada."

The Dynasty is priced at $1.9m. Like its counterpart, the Epic LT, the sleek composite aircraft is expected to cruise at 340 KTAS (391 MPH) behind a single 1200hp Pratt & Whitney PT6. Ceiling for pressurized cabin-class aircraft is 28,000 feet with a range of 1560 nm. The Dynasty will be the first project to enter the new Canadian Centre for Aerospace Development (CCAD) at Calgary and Medicine Hat, Alberta. The facilities are designed specifically to test new high tech composite aircraft construction and offer a complete range of services and programs for general aviation. The second plane to take advantage of the new Canadian system will be the all new Epic Elite, a twin engine entry into the certified Very Light Jet (VLJ) category.

"The Canadians have been wonderful to work with," Schrameck said. "They are committed to making this new CCAD facility an efficient and cost-effective solution to the overall expense of general aviation aircraft certification."

The certified Dynasty and Elite will both be built in Canada at a new 100,000 square foot aircraft completion center at Springbank Airport. AIR will break ground on the facilities this fall, with completion slated for spring 07. The new manufacturing facility is expected to ultimately employ up to 400 people with revenues of up to $100 million. During the interim, a temporary completion center will be operational this fall.