Ampaire Reaches Historic FAA Hybrid-Electric Certification Milestone
California-based Ampaire Inc. has set a precedent by becoming the first company to secure FAA approval for a hybrid-electric aircraft propulsion system certification basis. This achievement signifies a significant milestone in the journey towards sustainable aviation. The Federal Aviation Administration has given the green light to the G-1 Issue Paper for Ampaire’s AMP-H570 hybrid electric propulsion system, thereby establishing the necessary regulatory framework for Supplemental Type Certification.
The AMP-H570 system, specifically designed as a retrofit for the Cessna Caravan, boasts up to a 70% reduction in fuel burn and emissions compared to traditional aircraft. The hybrid architecture facilitates in-flight battery recharging, eliminating the need for ground charging infrastructure. This is a feature reminiscent of early automotive hybrid systems.
“This milestone demonstrates that we are executing on our regulatory roadmap, removing risk for investors and customers, and accelerating real-world deployment,” said Kevin Noertker, Ampaire’s co-founder and CEO. The company’s Eco Caravan, equipped with the AMP-H570, has demonstrated more than double the fuel efficiency of conventional aircraft during flight tests and remains on track for certification by the end of 2026.
Source: Aviation International News