Imagine a regional plane that works like a hybrid car, using a mix of batteries, fuel cells, and clean fuels. It's designed for short hops under 500 km, making it a faster alternative to trains for connecting remote areas. The goal is to make flying these short distances much cleaner and quieter.
Regional air transport faces pressure to reduce GHG emissions while remaining competitive against high-speed rail for distances under 500 km. Current aircraft lack the hybrid-electric integration needed to meet 2030 sustainability targets.
The project developed aircraft architectures, simulation models, and trade-off studies for a 50-100 seat hybrid-electric plane.
If you are an aircraft manufacturer dealing with strict new emission targets — this project developed architectures for a 50-100 seat plane that can reach up to 90% lower emissions. This allows for the creation of a new product line for regional routes.
If you are a regional carrier dealing with high fuel costs and environmental regulations on routes under 500 km — this project developed a hybrid-electric concept that targets a 50% reduction in GHG emissions. This helps maintain connectivity to remote zones while cutting pollution.
If you are an airport operator dealing with the need for new fueling systems — this project developed requirements for ground infrastructure to support batteries and fuel cells. This ensures your facilities are ready for the mid-2030 entry into service of hybrid planes.
Based on available project data, there is no specific information regarding the unit cost or price of the aircraft.
The project targets regional aircraft with a capacity of approximately 50-100 seats for distances of less than 500 km.
Based on available project data, specific IP and licensing terms are not disclosed in the summary.
The aircraft is intended to be ready for entry into service by mid-2030.
The project focuses on developing the aircraft to interact with new ground infrastructure that supports new energy sources like batteries and fuel cells.
The project is heavily industry-driven, with 34 industrial partners representing 65% of the 52-member consortium. Led by Leonardo, the group includes 8 SMEs and a strong academic/research presence (18 partners), indicating a high focus on translating theoretical hybrid-electric propulsion into manufacturable aircraft components across 14 countries.
Contact Leonardo S.p.A. regarding the HERA project coordination
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