Socata Tb-30 Epsilon

Single Piston

The Socata TB-30 Epsilon is a French two-seat turbocharged military trainer that has served as the primary basic trainer for the French Air Force since 1983. Built by Socata (now part of Daher), the Epsilon was designed to replace aging Fouga Magister and Mudry CAP 10 trainers with a modern, cost-effective platform optimized for ab-initio military pilot training. Its tandem seating, excellent visibility, and benign handling characteristics make it ideal for teaching fundamental aerobatic maneuvers and military flying discipline. The aircraft is powered by a Lycoming AEIO-540 six-cylinder piston engine producing 300 horsepower, driving a constant-speed propeller. With a maximum speed of 238 knots and a never-exceed speed of 270 knots, the Epsilon offers performance well beyond typical civilian trainers while maintaining relatively low operating costs. Its +6/-3g aerobatic envelope allows full military aerobatic training including loops, rolls, and spins. Beyond France, the type has been exported to Portugal and Togo for military training duties. A small number of Epsilons have found their way onto civilian registers in the United States and elsewhere, often flown by warbird enthusiasts and aerobatic pilots who appreciate the type's rugged construction and spirited performance. The aircraft's military pedigree is evident in its sturdy landing gear, ejection-seat-compatible cockpit, and provisions for underwing hardpoints on the armed TB-30B variant used for light attack training. SkyMeter has tracked 34 flights across 10 airframes and 7 operators, with LINEBAUGH JEFFREY A the largest observed operator.