Global Crossing Airlines Group, Inc. (GlobalX), the Miami-based operator of passenger and cargo charter aircraft, has signed a Letter of Intent to purchase 50 all-electric commuter Alice aircraft, according to an announcement from all-electric aircraft maker Eviation Aircraft.
The Driven reported that the 50 Alice aircraft, which are scheduled for delivery by 2027, will enable GlobalX to provide customers with zero-emission flights on short trips. That said, the Caribbean’s island-hopping is about to become much more environmentally friendly.
The electric aircraft will expand passenger travel options in Florida, the Bahamas, and the Caribbean, which are three of GlobalX’s most important markets. Notably, this will help the airline achieve its goal of using sustainable and carbon-free technology.
As for the specifications, the company’s “targets” electric plane is envisioned to have a maximum cruise speed of 250 knots (463 km/h) and a flight range of 440 nautical miles (814 km). It calls for a takeoff height of about 800 meters and a payload of 1.133 tonnes.
Eviation’s Alice, built on a “clean sheet” chassis and propelled by mangi650 propulsion units from Australia’s magniX, is now also being assessed by GlobalX in a cargo format. In comparison to light jets or high-end turboprops, it emits no carbon dioxide, reduces noise significantly, and operates at a lower cost per flight hour.
The flight operator intends to utilize the Alice aircraft for various purposes, according to a statement from Ed Wegel, chair and CEO of GlobalX.
“Eviation’s Alice aircraft is setting the standard in sustainable aviation, and we plan to offer the aircraft to our cruise line, tour operators, leisure travel providers, and business clients with a need for short-haul charter flights across Florida,” he said.
“The Alice aircraft will allow us to offer sustainable, regional flights to and from major markets, and is the first step in our initiative to be a zero-carbon emissions airline by 2050. We are proud to be a launch customer for Eviation and lead the charge in bringing carbon-free air travel to our passengers.”
Due to the significantly lower maintenance and power costs of electric motors compared to traditional aircraft engines, The Driven claimed in 2018 that using an Eviation Alice might result in substantially lower flight expenses.
Gregory Davis, president of Eviation, also made statements that seemed to allude to the possibility that this would come to pass.
“We are delighted to enter this agreement with GlobalX, whose investment in zero-emissions flight demonstrates the airline’s commitment to cleaner skies, lower operational costs, and the provision of the most innovative options for air travel. Quieter, smoother and with a cabin design that defines the future, the in-flight experience aboard the Alice will offer GlobalX passengers a new way to fly,” he said via a statement.
