Results for: jaunt air mobility

ZeroAvia has announced a pivotal partnership with Surcar Airlines, a newly established airline with a vision to revolutionize flights in the Canary Islands. The collaboration seeks to introduce environmentally friendly air travel to the region through the deployment of ZeroAvia’s cutting-edge ZA600 hydrogen-electric engines.

Surcar Airlines, backed by investors including Nordic Seaplanes, plans to reshape the aviation landscape in the Canary Islands by retrofitting Twin Otter seaplanes with the ZA600 powertrain. These seaplanes, traditionally reliant on conventional fuel sources, will undergo a transformation that aligns with Surcar Airlines’ mission to pave the way for zero-emission aviation experiences. The Canary Islands’ captivating vistas will serve as the backdrop for a new era of green sightseeing flights, demonstrating the feasibility and allure of sustainable air travel.

ZeroAvia’s ZA600 engine is set to gain certification for 9-19 seat aircraft within the next two to three years. The strategic collaboration between ZeroAvia and De Havilland of Canada, holder of the Twin Otter’s type certificate, solidifies the trajectory towards a hydrogen-electric future for these aircraft.

As the European Union strives for a 55 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and Spain aims for carbon-neutral transportation by 2050, Surcar Airlines’ pioneering efforts are emblematic of a wider commitment to address climate change. Public sentiment echoes this urgency, with a majority of Europeans expressing intentions to limit air travel due to environmental concerns.

James Peck, Chief Customer Officer of ZeroAvia, envisions the Canary Islands as an ideal testing ground for early zero-emission flights. The archipelago’s inter-island routes provide the perfect canvas for replacing conventional engines with hydrogen-electric alternatives, aligning the region with sustainable travel trends.

Gerardo Morales-Hierro, Founder & CEO of Surcar Airlines, underscores the company’s dual commitment to preserving the Canary Islands’ natural beauty and reducing the impact of climate change. By embracing ZeroAvia’s groundbreaking technology, Surcar Airlines aims to deliver cleaner flights while fostering positive impacts on both the local community and the environment.

Recently, ZeroAvia also successfully completed testing of the ZA600 prototype aboard a Dornier 228 aircraft, which marks a significant milestone on the path to emission-free aviation. Hydrogen-electric engines, utilizing fuel cells to generate electricity, not only propel the aircraft but also emit only water – an innovative development for the aviation industry that had been gaining traction and popularity.

Why it’s important: With its ambitious targets of a 300-mile range in 9-19 seat aircraft by 2025 and a 700-mile range in 40-80 seat aircraft by 2027, ZeroAvia remains steadfast in its mission to drive aviation towards a sustainable future. Backed by key partnerships, FAA and CAA certificates, and pre-orders from global airlines, ZeroAvia is poised to usher in a new era of cleaner, greener flight operations, with commercial operations on the horizon by 2025. Together with Surcar Airlines, the partnership signals a transformative step forward for aviation and environmental stewardship in the Canary Islands.

The Commercial UAV Expo 2023 is introducing an Advanced Airspace Summit this year. Taking place on September 6, 2023, at Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, this summit aims to create a pathway between crewed and uncrewed aviation, fostering trust and collaboration within the airspace community.

Jeremiah Karpowicz, Group Editorial Director at Diversified Communications, underlined the importance of building trust across the aviation spectrum, stating, “Commercial UAV Expo is working to bridge that gap and create trust within the entirety of the airspace community, including the general public.”

The Advanced Airspace Summit includes two panel sessions that will focused on two questions shaping aerial mobility’s future:

Part I: Cultivating Public Trust – The summit starts by exploring public readiness for the future airspace, leading into discussions on building trust through airspace deconfliction and the influence of current drone corridors on the future airspace landscape.

Part II: Establishing Regulatory and Operational Frameworks – Regulation takes center stage, with experts discussing working within existing FAA frameworks to advance UAM & UAS operations. A panel also examines the role of people, processes, and policies in drone, cargo, and air taxi operations.

The Advanced Airspace Summit holds importance as a platform for stakeholders to collaboratively shape a secure aviation future. Toni Drummond, President US of Titan Aviation Global, succinctly emphasized, “The next revolution of sustainable aviation will depend on all stakeholders working together to develop solutions that will carry us directly into the future.”

Why it’s important: With the countdown to the Commercial UAV Expo 2023 underway, the industry eagerly anticipates the practical insights, strategies, and collaborations that will help advance aerial mobility and aviation. The Advanced Airspace Summit will help to facilitate those discussions and move the industry forward.

Wisk has successfully flown its fifth-generation eVTOL, Cora at this week’s EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh. The event marks the companies first pubic autonomous demonstration of its anticipated eVTOL air taxi.

The flight, which included two runway passes and a vertical to wingborne flight maneuver, lasted 4 minutes and carried no passengers. “The final portion of the flight it came back to center stage, did a 270-deg. pedal turn, hovered there for a minute, did a little hat tip—dipped its nose to the crowd,” said Jay Pankowski, Wisk manager of operations support, who served as flight announcer. “We couldn’t be more thrilled with the outcome.”

Headquartered just outside of San Jose, California, Wisk has been steadily progressing through its flight test campagin ahead of FAA certification.

“The context of [the demonstration] was being the first performer after the parachuters and the National Anthem opening what is a pretty complex airshow, with a lot of fast-moving airplanes,” said Wisk Aero CEO Brian Yutko, speaking with Aviation Week. “Fitting into that environment and doing it in a non-disruptive way was a key focus for us and the team totally knocked it out of the park.”

Wisk will get plenty of facetime this week as it will perform public demonstration flights on Tuesday, Thursday, and Saturday. The flights are manned by a six person crew, 3 remote pilot/engineers, a crew chief and assistant, and a visual observer, which the FAA requires while Wisk is unable to remotely sense and avoid other traffic.

“What we’ve said so far is we intend to certify it and get into commercial operations this decade,” Yutko said. “It’s our job to put forward what we think is a safe system; it’s the FAA’s job to independently check it and validate it. Given how novel this all is, we don’t want to improperly apply pressure to our teams or to the other teams to meet a date. But we have internal timelines and we think that we can get the job done and start commercial service this decade.”

Why it matters: eVTOL has been increasingly highlighted at EAA AirVenture in Oshkosh since the Covid pandemic. With designs reaching flight test maturity, the public gets to now see eVTOL’s first hand and it can be expected that fully autonomous operation and FAA certification is in the not too distant future.

Ampaire Inc., a pioneer in hybrid electric aircraft systems, has recently announced the acquisition of Talyn Air Inc.’s assets. Talyn Air, known for its innovative electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft systems, will now join forces with Ampaire to drive further profitable growth and explore attractive opportunities in adjacent defense, drone, and eVTOL markets.

This strategic acquisition will not only expand Ampaire’s intellectual property and contracts portfolio with eight additional patents and seven government contracts with sole-source follow-on rights, but also multiply the applications for its groundbreaking hybrid electric propulsion systems. These systems have already been flown over 18,000 miles – the highest hybrid electric flight time in the industry – integrated into general aviation and regional turboprop commercial aircraft.

Kevin Noertker, CEO of Ampaire, expressed enthusiasm about the acquisition, stating that the integration of Talyn’s technology into Ampaire’s strong technical foundation would immediately boost revenue growth. Furthermore, this collaboration would enable the company to extend its reach into the lucrative drone and eVTOL sectors for both commercial and defense applications.

Talyn Air, founded in 2019 and headquartered in Los Angeles, has made significant strides in the aviation industry, showcasing advanced aircraft technologies in flight and establishing vital relationships with commercial and government customers. The company has also secured crucial contracts with various Department of Defense entities, including innovative projects with NAVAIR Aircraft Division, the USAF 621st Contingency Response Wing, and participation in the AFWERX TACFI design / build / fly program under Agility Prime.

Jamie Gull, CEO of Talyn, expressed excitement about the partnership with Ampaire, affirming that their collective vision for advancing aviation and promoting a greener future would be realized through this collaboration. By leveraging Ampaire’s industry-leading solutions, Talyn’s innovative technology will offer capabilities to the aviation sector greater than the sum of their parts.

Ampaire, established in 2016 and headquartered in Los Angeles, is driven by a mission to become the world’s most trusted developer of practical and compelling electric aircraft. Their hybrid electric and electric propulsion technologies have found applications across various aircraft types. The company has achieved numerous industry firsts, including the longest flight for a hybrid electric aircraft and the maiden flight of the world’s largest hybrid electric plane, the hybrid electric Eco Caravan aircraft, in 2022.

Why it’s important: This strategic acquisition marks a significant milestone in Ampaire’s journey to become an industry leader in electrified aviation. With an expanded portfolio of cutting-edge technology and programs, Ampaire is poised to offer customers the most experienced hybrid electric propulsion capabilities, catering to drones, fixed-wing aircraft, and eVTOL aircraft alike.

Related:

• Ampaire releases Hybrid Electric Propulsion Whitepaper
• Ampaire Receives Order for 6 Hybrid-Electric Aircraft from Conecta, Subsidary of Azul Airlines

In a significant move towards transforming urban mobility in Vietnam, SkyDrive Inc., a leading Japanese eVTOL aircraft manufacturer, and CT UAV JSC, a subsidiary of CT Group in Vietnam, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding and agreed on a pre-order of up to 100 SkyDrive eVTOL aircraft.

The SKYDRIVE is a three-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, designed to address the mounting traffic congestion in Vietnam’s bustling cities. With Vietnam facing the challenges of increasing traffic congestion on a daily basis, the partnership between SkyDrive and CT UAV presents a promising solution to improve transportation efficiency and reduce urban congestion.

SkyDrive’s eVTOL is currently in the process of acquiring its Japan Civil Aviation Bureau (JCAB) certification, indicating its dedication to meeting stringent safety and regulatory standards for air travel. The innovative aircraft is operated by a driver-pilot, supported by a computer-controlled flight system, ensuring flight stability and safety.

The collaboration between SkyDrive and CT UAV marks a significant milestone in the development of advanced mobility solutions in Vietnam. CT UAV, backed by CT Group, operates in nine business lines and is focused on six high-tech industries, including UAV technology. With the mission to integrate artificial intelligence (AI) with UAV technology, CT UAV is poised to bring intelligent solutions to tackle modern-day challenges and enhance the quality of life.

Previously, SkyDrive secured an MOU with Pacific Group Co Ltd in Vietnam, resulting in a pre-order of up to 100 eVTOL aircraft in November 2022. With the recent pre-order from CT UAV, the total pre-orders for SkyDrive’s eVTOL in Vietnam have increased to 200 units, underlining the high demand and potential of this innovative urban mobility solution in the country.

The partnership between SkyDrive and CT UAV will involve comprehensive evaluations of commercial eVTOL considerations, including vertiports, routes, infrastructure requirements, and ecosystem planning. This thorough assessment will pave the way for the successful integration of eVTOL aircraft into Vietnam’s urban transportation network.

Mr. Tran Kim Chung, President of CT Group, expressed the company’s commitment to contribute to Vietnam’s development on the global market through leveraging their expertise in infrastructure and cutting-edge technologies like drones and AI.

Tomohiro Fukuzawa, CEO of SkyDrive Inc., expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to collaborate with CT Group, a leading UAV company in Vietnam with a significant share in the urban development market. He emphasized the potential of eVTOL aircraft to alleviate traffic congestion and contribute to further social development in Vietnam.

Why it’s important: The partnership between SkyDrive and CT UAV holds immense promise for Vietnam’s future, as it offers a sustainable, efficient, and futuristic solution to the growing transportation challenges in the country, enabling citizens to soar above the traffic and embrace a smarter and more advanced mobility experience.

Eve and Embraer have announced this week that their first eVTOL production facility will be located in the city of Taubaté, in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. Subject to the final authorities’ approval, the manufacturing plant will be situated on a designated portion of land within Embraer’s existing unit in the city that will be expanded.

The site benefits from a strategic logistical location, offering easy access via two highways and close proximity to a railroad. Another significant advantage is the region’s proximity to Embraer’s headquarters in São José dos Campos and Eve’s engineering and human resources team, which will facilitate the development and sustainability of new production processes, enhancing Eve’s agility and competitiveness.

“When we began our search for a manufacturing location to build our eVTOL, we wanted to reimagine how the aircraft could be built using the latest technology and manufacturing processes, coupled with other aspects such as supply chain and logistics,” said Andre Stein, co-CEO of Eve. “Our objective is to offer safe and reliable products and services to the market and be highly competitive in manufacturing efficiency. The team was tasked with the opportunity to design an optimized assembly line that prioritizes safety, quality, efficiency, productivity, and sustainability.”

“This decision is aligned with our growth strategy plan, which is driven by innovation and sustainability,” said Francisco Gomes Neto, President & CEO at Embraer. “We believe in the enormous potential of the global Urban Air Mobility market, and we reinforce our commitment to Eve as one of the major players in this industry.”

In May 2022, Eve announced a partnership with Porsche Consulting to define Eve’s eVTOL global manufacturing, supply chain and logistics macro strategy. The two companies have since worked together to research advanced manufacturing and innovation concepts and used their combined aeronautical and automotive expertise to design a concept of industrialization for eVTOL aircraft based on high safety, quality, efficiency and customer focus.

“We are focused on achieving the highest quality standards in eVTOL manufacturing through increased knowledge and consideration of an innovative approach. Following extensive research on advanced manufacturing and innovation concepts for over a year, we are now prepared to establish our initial factory for eVTOL production. With confidence in our capabilities, we are equipped to efficiently scale the production volume sustainably to meet the demands of a growing market,” added Alice Altissimo, Vice President of Program Management and Operation at Eve.

Eve continues to progress in developing its eVTOL. The company also focuses on creating a comprehensive portfolio of agnostic solutions, including a unique Urban Air Traffic Management (Urban ATM) software to optimize and scale Urban Air Mobility operations worldwide.

Why it matters: The development of eVTOL manufacturing sites is a significant process running in parallel with the design, testing, and certification of these crafts. With a strategically located facility for both Eve and Embraer, access to the facility for both employees and the necessary suppliers for the construction of the eVTOL should be optimized.

Source: Eve Press Release

VerdeGo Aero and Röder Präzision GmbH announced on June 14th that they have jointly introduced the SR-305-VDG aircraft engine, an engine optimized for hybrid-electric applications. The engine is designed to complement battery energy storage by converting liquid fuels (Jet-A, JP-8, SAF, e-fuels) into electricity, providing additional propulsive power for electric aircraft. This collaboration aims to enhance the performance of electric aircraft and promote more sustainable aviation practices.

The SR-305-VDG engine is the result of two years of testing and engineering development between VerdeGo Aero and Röder Präzision GmbH. Its key features include higher power output, reduced weight, and a smaller system volume, making it an ideal power source for a new generation of high-performance electric aircraft.

VerdeGo Aero’s VH-3 hybrid powerplant, equipped with the SR-305-VDG engine, will be showcased at AirVenture 2023, emphasizing its potential in supporting high-performance electric aircraft for various missions. The engine’s ability to use different types of liquid fuels enables aircraft to achieve higher energy densities, thereby extending their range and mission capabilities.

Eric Bartsch, CEO of VerdeGo Aero, highlighted the significance of this collaboration, stating that the partnership has enabled the delivery of a hybrid powerplant that meets the demands of electric aircraft manufacturers looking for more efficient and powerful solutions.

Jörg Erdmann, COO of Röder Präzision GmbH, expressed his excitement about the engine’s potential for hybrid-electric applications and how it could contribute to reducing carbon emissions in aviation through the use of sustainable aviation fuels.

Why it’s important: The introduction of the SR-305-VDG aircraft engine represents further progress by Verdego toward electrification and democratization of aviation. By offering a more efficient and sustainable power source, this collaboration has the potential to offer additional powerplant choices for aircraft configurators. As reported previously by TransportUP, this represents the company’s approach toward bridging the gap between the most advanced and efficient powerplant offerings of today and in the future.

VoltAero is set to make its U.S. debut of the Cassio 330. The company’s CEO and Chief Technology Officer, Jean Botti, will introduce the Cassio 330 and provide insights into VoltAero’s roadmap for the development and production of the Cassio aircraft family on Tuesday, July 25, 2023, at 11:30 a.m. at the EAA AirVenture Booth #429.

The North American unveiling of the Cassio 330 comes just weeks after the prototype was showcased at the Paris Air Show. VoltAero, under the leadership of Jean Botti, is bringing the future of e-aviation to Oshkosh by showcasing the groundbreaking Cassio aircraft. The Cassio 330 on display will feature a passenger interior and cutting-edge Quantum avionics from Avidyne, which is the first application of their new-generation 14-inch dual PFD/MFD configuration. This collaboration highlights Avidyne’s exclusive agreement with VoltAero to develop and supply the Cassio 330’s avionics.

In addition to the Cassio 330, VoltAero’s newest strategic investor, Kawasaki, will unveil hydrogen-powered thermal engines designed to power future versions of the Cassio aircraft. This marks a significant milestone for Kawasaki as it charts its path into the general aviation market.

VoltAero’s Cassio represents a new era in general aviation with its patented electric-hybrid propulsion system. This technology enables safe, quiet, efficient, and eco-friendly flight, setting the Cassio apart from conventional aircraft. With the Cassio 330 leading the way, the family of 5-12 seat aircraft offers versatility for various applications, including air taxi/charter, commercial flights, cargo, postal delivery, Medevac, and private ownership. VoltAero’s modular design strategy ensures that these aircraft share significant commonality, enhancing efficiency and reducing costs.

The U.S. debut of VoltAero’s electric-hybrid aircraft family is a significant milestone in the advancement of sustainable aviation. With innovative propulsion systems and forward-thinking design, VoltAero is leading the charge in transforming the industry. The introduction of the Cassio 330 and the company’s roadmap for future development and production signals a promising future for clean and efficient air transportation.

Why it’s important: VoltAero’s electric-hybrid aircraft family represents a crucial step towards sustainable aviation. By combining electric and hybrid propulsion technologies, these aircraft offer safe, quiet, efficient, and eco-friendly flight capabilities. With applications ranging from air taxi services to cargo delivery, these innovative aircraft have the potential to revolutionize the aviation industry and reduce its environmental impact.

Los Angeles-based electric aviation company, Surf Air Mobility, is expanding regional air travel through electrification. The company aims to develop powertrain technology with commercial partners to bring electrified aircraft to the market at scale, reducing costs and environmental impact. Surf Air Mobility recently announced its plan to be listed on the New York Stock Exchange as a publicly traded company, using the ticker symbol “SRFM.” This listing is expected to occur during the week of July 24th, following its acquisition of regional carrier Southern Airways.

Surf Air Mobility has been supporting the development of hybrid and fully electric propulsion systems for Cessna Grand Caravans. The goal is to retrofit existing turboprop aircraft and electrify regional plane fleets, promoting sustainability in aviation.

To strengthen its financial position, Surf Air Mobility secured an agreement with investment group Gem Global Yield. Gem has committed to purchasing 1 million shares of Surf stock at $25 per share upon the company’s public listing, providing potential funding of up to $400 million. This collaboration will support Surf Air Mobility’s future projects.

Operating as a membership-based platform, Surf Air Mobility allows members to book flights with third-party operators in California. The company is recognized for delivering exceptional user experiences in the regional air mobility segment.

By acquiring Southern Airways Express, Surf Air Mobility plans to establish a comprehensive regional airline network across the United States. This network will serve cities across various regions, including the mid-Atlantic, Gulf Coast, Midwest, Rocky Mountains, West Coast, New England, and Hawaii.

Surf Air Mobility filed a registration statement with the US Securities and Exchange Commission on June 5th, setting the stage for its stock exchange listing. The completion of the acquisition with Southern Airways is a requirement for this process.

Why it’s important: The listing represents a fresh start for Surf Air Mobility after the termination of its previous merger deal. Unlike an initial public offering, a direct listing allows shareholders to sell shares directly to the public. This approach provides flexibility and adaptability to market conditions. Surf Air Mobility’s listing on the New York Stock Exchange marks a significant milestone, as the company drives the development and deployment of electrified aircraft. By prioritizing sustainability and exceptional travel experiences, Surf Air Mobility is poised to revolutionize regional air travel.

Related:

• Surf Air Mobility Works toward Electric future with AeroTEC and MagniX; Announces IPO
• Surf Air Mobility to Order 150 Grand Caravan EX Aircraft for Hybrid-Electric Product Offering

ASKA A5 is the world’s first flying car to start the type certification process with the FAA. The Silicon Valley air mobility company’s prototype was awarded Certificate of Authorization (COA) and Special Airworthiness Certification by the FAA and has started flight testing.

Since 2022 ASKA has performed successful ground testing and in Q1/2023 began conducting on-street driving tests. This Special Airworthiness Certificate signals that ASKA™ A5 has successfully met all FAA safety requirements.

“We have achieved a series of technological milestones; debuting the first full-scale working prototype of the ASKA™ A5 in January at CES, successfully performing field and driving tests, and obtaining the COA and Special Airworthiness Certification for our pre-production prototype,” says Guy Kaplinsky, CEO/Cofounder. “The data we are harvesting from flight testing is enabling us to make progress towards our type certification. We already completed the initial phase and are progressing towards our next milestone, G1 status.”

The size of an SUV, the four-seater ASKA™ A5 is a drive & fly eVTOL that can travel by road and air. The vehicle is designed for the highest level of safety, a key factor that has enabled the company to make positive progress with the FAA toward type certification. Other key features include:

• Dual hybrid energy supply: ASKA is hybrid with batteries and a range extender engine that charges the batteries in-flight. Uses premium gasoline available from today’s gas stations
• Large Aerodynamic wings, optimized for safe landing with ability to glide
• Six independent motor systems for flight
• Sufficient reserve flight time to meet FAA safety requirement
• Ballistic parachute
• 4 seat capacity (1 pilot and 3 passengers)
• Capable of Vertical Takeoff and Landing (VTOL) from helipads and Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) from runways
• Max flight range 250 miles
• Airspeed up to 150mph

“The airworthiness certification validates our efforts to develop a drive & fly eVTOL with an emphasis on safety,” explains Maki Kaplinsky, CoFounder/Chair & COO. “One of the significant advantages of a roadworthy eVTOL, like the ASKA™ A5, is that it does not require the modification or electrification of existing airports since it can maximize the use of today’s infrastructure, such as the many charging stations located around us. We are working with local airports in the Bay Area to test and confirm our concept of operations – they open the gate, ASKA™ A5 drives in as a car, drives/taxis to the helipad or runway, transforms into the flight mode and can take off.”

ASKA™ A5 makes the maximum use of existing infrastructure, such as parking, charging stations, airfields, helipads and runways, for a seamless integration into city and suburban landscapes. The vehicle fits in standard parking spaces, it can be charged at home and EV charging stations, and the range extender engine runs on premium gasoline purchased at existing automotive gas stations.

Pre-order reservations launched in 2021 and the company has already secured $50M in pre-orders.

Why it’s important: This announcement demonstrates that ASKA has been working closely with the FAA on type certification, which signifies the design is in compliance with applicable airworthiness, noise, fuel venting, and exhaust emissions standards. Further, G-1 basis is a critical milestone in the FAA cross-validation process, establishing airworthiness and environmental requirements necessary to achieve FAA Type Certification Validation.

Related:

• ASKA eVTOL to debut at CES 2023
• NFT Aska eVTOL Now Available for Pre-Order

Ampaire released a 20 page Whitepaper in late June which details the primary benefits of hybrid electric propulsion, named the Executive Guide 1.0. This guide focuses on the current technological readiness of hybrid electric propulsion systems that Ampaire’s aircraft feature and why the current landscape best supports hybrid electric propulsion solutions, at least until battery energy densities increase beyond what is currently available.

In fours primary sections, the document outlines the basics of hybrid electric vs. all electric propulsion, then details the basic system of hybrid electric propulsion. It examines hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) advancements and projections for renewable energy source integration into the greater aviation powertrain ecosystem in the future.

The Whitepaper also outlines the ways hybrid electric systems benefit the efficiency and capabilities of aircraft, and how Ampaire specifically distributes their energy generation from ICE and battery sources during a flight. Another unique component of the analysis is the trade study of hydrogen or SAF use in smaller airplanes. While Ampaire has adopted the hybrid approach, companies like ZeroAvia are beginning to work on larger scale hydrogen fuel cell adaptations for turbine motors. ZeroAvia currently uses hydrogen fuel cell technology to power its Bombardier Q400 turboprop which is undergoing flight testing in Moses Lake, Washington and has future plans to convert a Dornier 228 to run on hydrogen.

Why it’s important: Fully electric aircraft are in our aviation future, but current models are challenged by battery energy density limits and battery weights that remain unchanged during energy consumption. On the contrary, once jet fuel is burned it results in a total aircraft weight reduction, allowing for increased performance. Accordingly, many OEMs are focusing on hybrid propulsion systems that leverage the benefits of internal combustion engines and battery technology for certain phases of flight, a best of both worlds approach given the current technological landscape. Analysts project that full electrification of small to regional jet sized airplanes is possible within the next decades, however large wide-body aircraft are not likely to see electrification given the current landscape; sustainable aviation fuel will likely serve as a means to offset total carbon lifecycle emissions for larger, longer range aircraft.

Read the full Whitepaper on Ampaire’s website here.

Related:

• Ampaire Receives Order for 6 Hybrid-Electric Aircraft from Conecta, Subsidary of Azul Airlines
• Ampaire Wins NASA Award for Innovative Hybrid Powerplant System Research

Joby Aviation, an industry leader in upcoming eVTOL ride-sharing, has announced that it has officially received a Special Airworthiness Certificate from the FAA to fly the first aircraft ever built on its production line in Marina, CA.

Joby Aviation’s first production aircraft (left), with room for one pilot plus four passengers

On June 28th, 2023, Joby Aviation announced that the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) issued a Special Airworthiness Certification to fly the Joby’s first aircraft ever created by the company’s mass production line. Joby originally received airworthiness approval for a pre-production prototype in December 2020, shortly after coming out of a stealth mode period for several years.

The new Special Airworthiness Certification issued by the FAA will now allow Joby to begin flight-testing this production version of the aircraft, which will match in assembly the version that will be used by fare-paying passengers.

Via this Certification, which is the first ever given by the FAA for a production eVTOL, Joby expects to become the first eVTOL maker to deliver an aircraft to a customer. The first customer for the Joby aircraft, which will receive the first production aircraft off the line (featured above), will be Agility Prime. Agility Prime is a technology incubator branch of the U.S Air Force, and helped Joby through its various flight testing phases. The first production aircraft will be delivered in Agility Prime in 2024. The aircraft will be operated  as part of the Company’s Agility Prime contract with the U.S. Air Force, worth up to $131 million.

One of Joby Aviation’s prototype aircraft in forward flight

This announcement also comes as Joby Aviation continues to move down the certification pipeline with the FAA to bring its eVTOL aircraft to commercialization. In February 2023, Joby Announced it had completed the second stage of this process, where it proved it could meet the safety standards set in the first stage.

In December of 2020, when the company first released footage of its prototype in flight, Joby also acquired Uber Elevate, Uber’s initiative to launch aerial ridesharing under their brand. At the same time, Joby also announced a funding round of over $590 million, with a large contribution from Toyota. Since then, the company has raised its value to over $1B, and launched on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: JOBY) in August of 2021.

Said JoeBen Bevirt, founder and CEO of Joby, “Today’s achievement is the culmination of years of investment in our processes and technology and it marks a major step on our journey to scaled production. We’re proud to have launched production in our home state of California. I’m incredibly grateful to the Joby team for their commitment to ensuring Joby remains the clear leader in this new sector and to Toyota for sharing their knowledge and experience with us over many years. Their support has been indispensable in helping us reach this point.”

Why it’s important: With this announcement, Joby Aviation’s aircraft has become the first ever production version eVTOL to receive airworthiness certification from the FAA. This marks a major milestone for the company, as this certification is an essential part of the journey to allowing the aircraft to carry fare-paying passengers.

Related:

• Joby Completes Second Stage of Certification Process (February 2023)
• Joby Receives Part 135 Air Carrier Certificate From the FAA (May 2022)
• Delta and Joby to Partner for Seamless Home-to-Airport Transportation (October 2022)
• FAA Proposes Airworthiness Criteria for Joby eVTOL (November 2022)

Plana, a South Korean electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft manufacturer, is making progress in the advanced air mobility (AAM) market with its innovative CP-01 hybrid-electric eVTOL aircraft. With a planned full-scale prototype unveiling in 2025 and commercial operations targeted for 2028, Plana is actively focused on increasing brand awareness, improving communication with customers and partners, and progressing with certification processes.

Designed as a six-seat aircraft, the CP-01 is intended to offer a fast, efficient, and eco-friendly mode of transportation. Equipped with six tilt rotors and an aerodynamic exterior for maximum stability, the CP-01 can fly up to 500 kilometers and cruise at a speed of 300 kilometers per hour. The airframe of the aircraft utilizes composite materials. Plana envisions the HeVTOL being utilized for various purposes, including long-range air taxis and air ambulances. Its hybrid powertrain combines electric propulsion through a combination of turbine generators powered by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), electric motors, and batteries.

In a recent development, Plana signed an agreement with SkyTaxi, a spinoff company of Japan’s Daiho Taxi Group, outlining the supply of ten CP-01 aircraft to SkyTaxi by 2030, with an additional forty units to be provided by 2040. The collaboration focuses on meeting the growing demand for efficient urban transportation solutions and highlights the potential of Plana’s eVTOL technology.

To facilitate the certification process and expand market presence, Plana is establishing locations in the United States, including Silicone Valley and Irvine, Texas. These facilities will cater to the requirements set by the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) and allow Plana to engage with key stakeholders in the AAM industry.

During Vice Mayor Tammy Kim’s visit to Plana’s Research and Development (R&D) Center in Icheon, South Korea, discussions were held regarding the opening of Plana’s new office in Irvine, California. Plana’s CEO, Braden J. Kim, emphasized the collaborative opportunities in policy, business development, and infrastructure with Irvine, citing the presence of prominent players like Parker Aerospace, Unical Aviation, OverAir, and Supernal in the aerospace and AAM landscape. The partnership between Plana and the city of Irvine holds promise for the future of urban air mobility.

Through technological advancements and strategic partnerships, Plana is poised to bring about a transformation in the aerial mobility sector. The CP-01 HeVTOL aircraft presents an innovative solution for urban transportation challenges, offering a sustainable, efficient, and advanced mode of travel. As Plana advances towards its goals, it aims to shape the future of the industry and usher in a new era of urban air mobility.

Why it’s important: The emergence of Plana’s CP-01 HeVTOL aircraft holds significant importance for the aerial mobility industry. This innovative aircraft represents a major step forward in the pursuit of efficient, eco-friendly, and advanced urban transportation solutions. With its hybrid-electric powertrain, impressive flying range, and cruise speed, the CP-01 showcases the potential of eVTOL technology to revolutionize the way people commute within cities and access critical services such as medical transportation. By offering a viable alternative to traditional modes of transportation, Plana’s CP-01 paves the way for reduced congestion, lower emissions, and enhanced mobility options. This development not only pushes the boundaries of technological innovation but also opens up new possibilities for urban air mobility, transforming the way we envision transportation in the future.

President of Jaunt Air Mobility’s Canada division Eric Côté has been added to the board of Aéro Montréal, an organization dedicated to positioning Quebec as a forerunner in the advanced aerial mobility industry.

The mission of Aéro Montréal is to facilitate and provide all expertise and support that may be needed as companies in Montréal begin to develop aerial mobility vehicles and services. Through collaborating with government, infrastructure, and private stakeholders, Aéro Montréal’s board will provide assistance with research & collaborative innovation, investment & financing services, design, prototyping, testing, certification, manufacturing, sales, infrastructure & operation, and more.

Jaunt Air Mobility, which was originally creating vehicles for an Uber Elevate partnership, is now bringing to market an advanced electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, which uniquely features a single lift rotor for auto-rotation and to further stabilize flight and reduce noise emissions. Learn more about the Jaunt Journey aircraft here.

Eric Côté has been president of Jaunt Canada for several years, and now looks forward to additionally serving on the Aéro board to make eVTOL a reality in Quebec. Said Côté: “It is an honour to join Aéro Montréal’s board and contribute to bringing AAM to Quebec and the world. At Jaunt, we have committed to designing, building, and certifying the Jaunt Journey in Canada due to the support of organizations like Aéro Montreal, the government, and access to a strong aviation community.”

Said Mélanie Lussier, President of Aéro Montréal: “We have assembled an incredible pool of expertise to realize our vision of building Quebec’s reputation as a centre of excellence in AAM (Advanced Aerial Mobility). Eric’s global business experience and the company’s mission to develop an eVTOL here make him a very valuable asset.”

In-air rendering of the Jaunt Journey aircraft

Notably, Jaunt has also made entries into to other international markets to commercialize its aircraft and services. So far, it has begun creating partnerships in Italy, Mexico, India, South Korea, South America, and more.

Why it’s important: By partnering with aerial mobility leaders in Quebec, Jaunt can not only offer valuable insight and research to help the city develop this new industry, but also has well-positioned their aircraft to be one of the first to begin operating in the area. By serving on the Aéro Montréal board, Côté can help Quebec to develop aerial mobility support and infrastructure, helping the city to prepare for eVTOL services by Jaunt as well as other new companies.

Source // Jaunt Air Mobility

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