Ampaire introduces the Eco Caravan

Earlier in the month, Ampaire began ground testing the propulsion system on its first hybrid electric Cessna Grand Caravan flight test aircraft. The proposed Eco Caravan offers game-changing fuel savings over the original aircraft of up to 70% on short-hop routes and over 50% on long-haul flights. The hybrid-powered Eco Caravan will be able to carry 9 passengers or approximately 800kg of cargo.

The Eco Caravan is the first hybrid electric aircraft to enter the FAA certification process. The STC process can take much less time then certifying an entirely new aircraft allowing a certification target of 2024. First flight of the Eco Caravan is earmarked to take place in the second half of 2022.