Hybrid-electric aircraft advances carrier’s net zero emissions goal by 2050
The battery-powered aircraft can carry up to 30 passengers
The electric range of 200 km is extended to 400 km with backup hybrid architecture.
The deal includes Air Canada’s participation in Hart Aerospace
Editor’s Note: Video footage of this flight is available here.
Air Canada today announced a purchase agreement for 30 ES-30 electric hybrid aircraft being developed by Sweden’s Hart Aerospace. The revolutionary regional aircraft, expected to enter service in 2028, will generate zero emissions by flying on battery power and generate significant savings and operational benefits. Under the deal, Air Canada also bought a $5 million stake in Hart Aerospace.
Air Canada today announced a purchase agreement for 30 ES-30 electric hybrid aircraft being developed by Sweden’s Hart Aerospace. (CNW Group / Air Canada)
“Air Canada has taken an industry leadership position in addressing climate change. The introduction of Hart Aerospace’s ES-30 electric regional aircraft to our fleet will be a step toward our goal of net zero emissions by 2050,” said Michael Rousseau, president and CEO of Air Canada. “Air Canada already supports the development of new technologies to address climate change, such as sustainable aviation fuels and carbon capture. As a customer for the ES-30 and as a partner at Hart Aerospace, we are now strengthening our commitment by investing in revolutionary electric aircraft technology.
The ES-30 will enable Air Canada to serve regional and commuter routes more sustainably, providing low-carbon connectivity to local communities in the medium to long term. It seats three (in 2X1 configuration) with a kitchen and a toilet and can carry 30 passengers. Air Canada has placed a purchase order for 30 ES-30 aircraft.
“Air Canada is a strategically important partner for Hart Aerospace. The company has one of the world’s largest networks powered by regional turboprops and is a progressive and future-oriented company, especially in green transmission,” said Anders Forslund, founder and CEO of Hart Aerospace. “With the ES-30 we can begin to reduce aviation emissions by the end of this decade.”
The aircraft will be powered by lithium-ion batteries and will be quieter, have better operating parameters, be more reliable and have a lower environmental impact than traditional turboprop aircraft. It will be equipped with backup hybrid generators capable of using standard aviation fuel. Fully loaded, the ES-30 is expected to have an all-electric zero-emission range of up to 200km. It can extend up to 400 km with integrated power through generators and up to 800 km with a load of only 25 passengers. The charging time of the aircraft should be 30 to 50 minutes.