Ampaire and ELIRE Aero partner on regional clean propulsion

Ampaire and ELIRE Aero are partnering to retrofit and certify existing airframes with hybrid propulsion technology.

The partnership, which has a focus on regional air mobility, will see ELIRE remain energy source agnostic as an OEM offering standard engines in their hybrid, electric and hydrogen powered aircraft. However the firm will continue to work towards the integration of further advanced technologies into the airframes in the future.

ELIRE Group CEO and founder at ELIRE Aero, Luke Jenkinson said: “In order for the aviation world to achieve targets of zero emission, there is a need for partnerships of like minded companies with the same ambitions. We are excited by the partnership with Ampaire, a proven leader over the past years with their advanced technologies and expert team, this collaboration and supply of hybrid engines allows us to be one of the first OEM’s in the world to provide hybrid eSTOL aircraft to our clients globally.”

McKinsey and Co. define regional air mobility (RAM) as transportation by air over about 150km to 800km on five- to 50-passenger aircraft, primarily using smaller regional airports.

CEO of Ampaire, Kevin Noertker, added: “To achieve the highest impact in rapidly deploying sustainable aviation solutions, it is crucial to meet OEMs and operators where they currently stand. This approach enables substantial enhancements on existing aircraft and routes, while also establishing the groundwork for a future of zero emissions. We see this collaboration with ELIRE as a meaningful opportunity to accelerate adoption of sustainable aviation solutions, and serve the expanding global RAM market.”