AURA AERO Achieves First Confirmed Order for Groundbreaking ERA Hybrid-Electric Aircraft
French aircraft manufacturer AURA AERO has reached a significant landmark with the initial confirmed order for its innovative ERA 19-seater hybrid-electric aircraft. The client is Pan Européenne Air Service (PEAS), a French private airline that has been providing bespoke business flights for nearly half a century.
The ERA aircraft signifies a revolution in sustainable aviation technology. It is powered by eight electric ENGINeUS motors—the world’s first certified electric aircraft engine developed by Safran—coupled with two sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)-compatible turbogenerators. The aircraft will automatically switch between hybrid and electric modes depending on the flight phase, promising a range of up to 900 nautical miles (1,500 km) and a maximum cruise speed of 300 knots.
AURA AERO states that the ERA will reduce CO2 emissions by up to 80% when compared to traditional thermal aircraft in its category. Pan Européenne Air Service aspires to be one of the first operators worldwide to transport paying passengers on a hybrid-electric aircraft, marking a trailblazing role in decarbonized aviation.
While AURA AERO had previously secured Letters of Intent from 16 international airlines for nearly 700 aircraft valued at $12 billion, this signifies the first solid financial commitment to the program. Testing of the first prototype is projected to commence by the end of 2026, with a maiden flight scheduled in 2027 and market launch aimed by 2030.
Source: Green Air News