A Decisive Step for Electric Aviation: Heart X1 Ready to Take Off

The Heart X1, a revolutionary electric airplane prototype, is set to make its inaugural flight in 2025.

The Heart X1, a full-scale prototype of the future ES-30, represents a major breakthrough in aviation. It is Heart Aerospace, a Swedish startup developing electric and hybrid aircraft, that is behind this project. They plan to test their prototype by the second quarter of 2025. This test will see their 32-meter wingspan electric aircraft take off from Plattsburgh Airport in New York State.

Designed to carry 30 passengers, this experimental model aims to validate Heart Aerospace’s electric propulsion technologies. These will be useful for the company in the future to equip the commercial version scheduled for 2028.

Performance suited for short flights

The Heart ES-30 is specifically designed for regional routes. Thanks to its hybrid propulsion, it can travel up to 400 kilometers, including 200 on fully electric mode. Although this range is less than that of long-haul aircraft, it is well suited for short trips between underserved areas. The aircraft will also be able to take off on shorter runways of 1,100 meters, an advantage for operations from small airports.

After the flight of the Heart X1, a second prototype is expected to be developed in the coming years. The Heart X2 is currently in design and will be used to test hybrid propulsion in 2026. This gradual approach will allow Heart Aerospace to refine its technologies before the commercial launch of the ES-30. With this project, the company aims to demonstrate that electric aviation can combine sustainability, innovation, and efficiency to meet regional transportation needs.

Also read: Airbus: why does this small experimental aircraft have 7 engines?