Dovetail Electric Aviation Unveils Hydrogen-Electric Powerplant for Beechcraft King Air
Key Ideas
- Dovetail Electric Aviation revealed a hydrogen-electric powerplant prototype designed for retrofitting in a Beechcraft King Air, optimized for 20-passenger aircraft.
- The powertrain aims to reduce operating costs by 40% for regional airlines, enabling the possibility of new economically viable routes.
- Funded by Spain's ICEX and supported by Australian and Spanish regional governments, the startup plans its future operations center in Spain.
- The project's first flight is scheduled for the next year in Australia, with Spain offering conducive conditions for research, development, and international business expansion.
Dovetail Electric Aviation has introduced its latest hydrogen-electric powerplant prototype, tailored for installation in a Beechcraft King Air aircraft. This powertrain, focusing on commonality, is specifically optimized for 20-passenger planes like the Cessna Caravan, De Havilland Canada Twin Otter, and Pilatus PC-12. The company anticipates a 40% reduction in operating costs for regional airlines with the potential to operate previously unfeasible routes. The project received partial funding from Spain's ICEX and collaboration with the Victorian government in Australia. Seeking a European base since 2022, the startup partnered with Spain's regional ministry for economy, finance, and European funds. ICEX representative Alberto Sanz Serrano highlighted Spain's favorable environment for research, product development, and international business expansion. Dovetail plans to finalize the location of its Spanish operations center in the near future with support from Andalusian government and other regional entities. The maiden flight is set for the upcoming year in Australia, marking a significant milestone in the company's hydrogen propulsion endeavors.
Topics
Aviation
Innovation
Research And Development
Government Support
International Expansion
Regional Airlines
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