Air New Zealand signed a deal intending to buy 23 Alice electric planes. Read to know more about the new step.
Air NZ to buy 23 Alice electric planes
In an attempt to shift to cleaner forms of energy and become the Norway of the South Pacific, Air NZ signed a deal to buy 23 Alice electric planes.
Air NZ is hence becoming closer to its plan of providing zero-emission flights by 2026. It is partnering with Beta, VoltAero, Eviation, and Cranfield Aerospace; Four airplane makers to develop demonstrator flights using green hydrogen, electric, and hybrid technologies. However, the airlines will be using them for freight and shart-haul passenger services across the several islands of Aotearoa (NZ).Â
Moreover, Air NZ becomes the first national flag carrier to endorse electric planes. “The nine-seater Alice is the first flight-proven all-electric commuter aircraft and promises to usher in a new era of carbon-free, cost-effective and convenient aviation,” stated Eviation. Additionally, “Alice is powered by two magni650 electric propulsion units developed by magniX, the global industry leader in flight-proven electric propulsion systems. Built from a clean-sheet design, the aircraft costs significantly less to operate per flight hour compared to light jets or high-end turboprops,” it added.
More on the new step
Last year Air New Zealand announced its’ NexGen Aircraft program, carrying the goal to accelerate the adoption of zero-emission aircraft. “Mission NextGen Aircraft represents a significant commitment to the development of sustainable aircraft. And the supporting infrastructure needed to decarbonize our domestic flights. Eviation’s all-electric Alice aircraft is a natural fit for the program. Especially with its proven technology that is optimized for short-range flights,” stated Greg Foran. Foran is the CEO of Air NZ.
“Regional flights make up a sizeable proportion of Air New Zealand’s routes. Alice offers an effective way to decarbonize these journeys. Hence, revolutionizing air travel and supporting the goals of the Mission NextGen Aircraft program” stated Gregory Davis. Davis is the CEO and President of Eviation.
