Diamond’s eDA40 completes maiden flight
Diamond Aircraft’s eDA40 has successfully completed its first flight.
The electric circuit trainer, which will be the first EASA/FAA Part 23 certified electric aircraft, was piloted by Diamond’s head of Flight Test Sören Pedersen. The maiden flight covered system checks, all basic manoeuvres and an initial performance evaluation. The aircraft is powered by an ENGINeUSTM electric smart motor made by Safran Electrical & Power and charged by Electric Power Systems’ (EP Systems) battery module equipped with a DC fast charging system.
Liqun Zhang, CEO Diamond Aircraft Austria, said: “We are extremely proud to announce another significant milestone for our all-electric eDA40. The aircraft performed outstandingly well during its maiden flight and not only met but exceeded all our expectations. We are very much looking forward to offer an exceptional sustainable aircraft for the flight training market of tomorrow.”
Bruno Bellanger, executive vice president & general manager of Safran’s Power division said it is the first the French OEM’s motors and systems will fly on an all-electric aircraft.
“Participating in the electrification of the DA40, a proven aircraft and a best seller, has been a thrilling technical challenge. We have recently obtained Design Organisation Approval from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for our ENGINeUS 100 electric motor and are currently on the home stretch in obtaining their final certification. This state-of-the-art equipment is one of the essential building blocks in Safran’s decarbonisation strategy,” said Bellanger.
The flight marks a historic milestone for both Diamond and EPS, according to Nathan Millecam, CEO of EP Systems: “The flight is the culmination of years of determination, innovation, and hard work. The eDA40 project ushers in a new era of electric propulsion that solves an immediate problem in both an economical and sustainable way. Through unwavering dedication and cutting-edge technology, we are showing the industry how electric propulsion can be implemented in aviation. We extend our deepest gratitude to our visionary customer, dedicated employees, and passionate investors who have made this achievement possible.”
The eDA40 is scheduled to be presented at AERO Friedrichshafen 2024 beside Lake Constance, Germany in April next year.
