Hybridge Regional Aircraft Ampaire Completes First Flight

Based on a Cessna 208B Grand Caravan platform, the Ampaire hybrid electric aircraft successfully completed its first test flight. And paves the way for more environmentally friendly regional travel.

If we focus on automobiles, let’s not forget that air and maritime transports also generate significant pollutant emissions and CO2 releases. Although the development level of hybrid and 100% electric engines is not yet as advanced as for individual transport, it is clear that many players are now present in this highly promising market, such as the American Ampaire with its Eco Caravan, which successfully completed its test flight in California.

This 33-minute flight allowed this prototype model to reach up to 3,500 feet at full power, using its combustion engine combined with an electric motor. According to the manufacturer, its latest model can achieve up to 1,100 miles of range (1,770 km) and carry up to 11 passengers.

Impressive Fuel Savings

Compared to an equivalent 100% thermal model, the one developed by Ampaire would reduce fuel consumption by up to 70%.

“As proud as we are of the Eco Caravan, we see it as a first step towards larger hybrid electric propulsion systems and, eventually, zero-emission systems, as energy storage technology advances,” announced Kevin Noertker, CEO of Ampaire. He added, “operating costs are reduced by 25 to 40% depending on the structure of air routes. The cost per available seat mile is close to that of a car.“

As a pioneer in its field, the American company Ampaire hopes to certify the Eco Caravan in 2024.

Read also: VoltAero Cassio: a hybrid aircraft soon in the skies?