Australian regional airline Northern Territory Air Service (NTAS) ordered 20 electric planes from the electric plane manufacturer Eviation, and they are not the only customer, as per Teslarati.
Five years ago, the idea of electric commercial planes was impossible. Commercial jets use enormous amounts of energy to keep them at cruising altitude. They are mostly the choice of travel for trips spanning hundreds or thousands of kilometers.
“Australia is recognized around the world for its breathtaking scenery and adopting carbon-free technologies is fundamental to preserving the environment for future generations,” said NTAS CEO Ian Scheyer.
“Eviation’s all-electric Alice aircraft provides us with the opportunity to chart a sustainable path forward in connecting communities across the country. With the adoption of electric aviation, we will be able to provide cost-effective and convenient passenger and cargo flights across the outback.”
Ordering process
However, with the latest innovations in the sector, Eviation is closer than ever to having this technology, and the airline industry is already starting the ordering process.
Eviation deals
Very few details were disclosed about the deal between NTAS and Eviation. But, Eviation will be supplying the Australian airline with 20 planes, which will be used in short, sub-300-mile journeys within the country, according to GeekWire.
“We value the forward-looking approach NTAS is taking to electrifying both passenger and freight transport services as well as promoting green tourism,” said Eviation’s President and CEO, Gregory Davis.
“The introduction of sustainable technology to meet the needs of NTAS and its customers demonstrates the versatility of electric aviation, and the ubiquitous opportunities for positive transformation through emissions-free regional air travel. With world leaders currently meeting at the COP27 climate summit, I can think of no better time to highlight the power of this technology to help communities and the planet.”
However, Eviation has been making deals outside of Australia, including Cape Air, Global, Air, DHL, and Evia Air in Germany.
Eviation obtained notoriety earlier this year for a couple of reasons. Firstly, the Eviation Alice passenger plane is larger than other electric plane competitors, often directed towards enthusiasts and those learning to fly. Second, the company gained credibility as the Eviation Alice took to the skies on its maiden voyage earlier this year, an achievement many other startups have yet to attain.
It lists some impressive specifications for Alice while looking at the Eviation website.
Eviation Alice’s specifications
The plane has a maximum payload of 2,500 pounds/nine passengers and their luggage, can go about 250 nautical miles (287 miles), and can reach 260 knots (300mph) maximum speeds.
While those specs are far from impressive in comparison to the ocean-crossing jets we are familiar with at our local airports. However, the Eviation Alice could be just as capable on shorter journeys as other small jets.
Electric Aviation
“Electric aviation will transform the way that people and goods move throughout Australia,” said Vice President of Commercial Sales at Eviation, Eddie Jaisaree.
“Together, we are bringing the convenience of air travel to communities that have not traditionally benefited from flight connectivity – in a sustainable and affordable way.”
The path to complete electrification of aviation still needs to be made clear. Several companies think that hybridized engine technology is the next step, while others believe hydrogen may best be appropriate for air travel.
However, one thing is clear, the start of that journey is already beginning.
