Every Bulletin story and press release covering Airframer, newest first.
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The move is in response to intensified interest in the planned launch of an OEM, zero-emissions Islander aircraft in 2026 as well as wider interest that has resulted from the introduction of finance and leasing options.
The technology combines electric ducted fans with leading edge lifting slats, to accelerate airflow over the wing. Ongoing testing points to a likelihood for significant reductions in takeoff and landing distances.
Slow charge cycles and the possible limitation of the maximum charge level per cycle, mean that real storage capacity would fall, and only a few hundred flights would drive operators to replace the entire storage unit.
Several flights were conducted with multiple firings of the hydrogen afterburner, reaching speeds of approximately 250 kilometres per hour and demonstrating the technology under real-world conditions.
The new developments include a heavy fuel powerplant, airframe modifications, advanced sensor modularity, enhanced survivability and cyber resilience - while building on a certified and proven basic configuration.
The successful flight test validates the company's licensed cargo drone technology for commercial flights in Europe, set to begin later this year.
