With the possibility of new-generation planes taking flight in the near future, young and ambitious aviation operators are also prepared to bring a fresh perspective on regional or urban air mobility. Surf Air Mobility has a unique approach. It is fully dedicated to supporting electrified aviation that it will not only operate electric alternative aircraft such as the Electra eSTOL but also create its own electric powertrain for upgrading existing planes – specifically, Textron’s Cessna Grand Caravan.
In anticipation of this exclusive partnership with Textron Aviation becoming a reality, Surf Air has already taken a bold step towards fully electric operations. It recently secured early delivery for 90 Electra aircraft. Surf Air intends to integrate them into its national flight network, which includes Southern Airways Express and Mokulele Airlines. Additionally, the two companies will collaborate on determining the future routes for the Electra eSTOL.
One of the key advantages of aircraft like the Electra is their compatibility with smaller airports and minimal infrastructure. By bypassing large commercial airports, passengers can save valuable time and contribute to sustainability.
Surf Air assures that electrified alternatives could reduce a Los Angeles-San Diego trip to just one and a half hours. Conventional flights currently take over three hours for this journey, while driving would also require at least two hours. This is just one simple example of the benefits that efficient, zero-emission aircraft could offer.
The Electra eSTOL is widely recognized for its ability to take off and land within a mere 150 feet (45.7 meters). Its hybrid-electric propulsion system enables the eSTOL to achieve a better range compared to eVTOLs, making it an excellent choice for regional service.
The impressive 500-mile (804 km) range is accompanied by a cruising speed of 175 knots (324 kph), which it can maintain even in challenging weather conditions. In terms of capacity, the Electra aircraft is also highly suitable for regional operations as it can carry up to nine passengers. In a cargo configuration, it can transport 2,500 lbs (1,133 kg) of cargo.
Surf Air’s recent order of 90 units further confirms the commercial success of the Electra. At the beginning of the year, the eSTOL manufacturer proudly announced that it had secured pre-orders for over 2,000 aircraft, valued at up to $8 billion. The US Air Force has also invested $85 million in the development of this innovative hybrid aircraft.
According to the Source autoevolution.com