Swedish hybrid-electric aeroplane manufacturer Heart Aerospace and US charter carrier JSX have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) for the acquisition of 50 ES-30 regional aeroplanes, with an option for an additional 50 [6f589a08]. The ES-30 is a hybrid-electric aircraft seating 30 passengers, with low emissions, reduced noise, and lower operational costs for short-haul flights. JSX's CEO, Alex Wilcox, highlights their dedication to eco-friendly, cost-effective solutions, aiming to provide essential air services to smaller communities. Heart Aerospace's firm orders for the ES-30 now total 250, with options and purchase rights for an additional 120 planes [6f589a08].
In related news, NASA is developing a hybrid-electric jet engine in partnership with General Electric (GE) Aerospace [b41f4fed]. The project, named HyTEC (Hybrid Thermally Efficient Core), aims to develop a small core for a hybrid-electric turbofan jet engine that can reduce fuel consumption by 10%. The core will be made of durable materials capable of withstanding higher temperatures, and the engine will be augmented by electrical power to further reduce fuel use and carbon emissions. The project is currently in the second phase of development, with ground testing planned before production in the 2030s [c791c98d].
This development by NASA and GE Aerospace aligns with the efforts of Heart Aerospace and JSX to promote sustainable aviation. The collaboration between Heart Aerospace and JSX for the acquisition of hybrid ES-30 aeroplanes demonstrates the growing interest in eco-friendly and cost-effective solutions for regional air travel. With the increasing focus on reducing carbon emissions and fuel consumption in the aviation industry, the development of hybrid-electric engines and aircraft is a significant step towards achieving a more sustainable future for air travel [b41f4fed].