Surf Air Mobility will install hybrid-electric powerplants on the new Cessna Grand Caravans. Courtesy of Surf Air Mobility
Textron Aviation today announced in a news release that Surf Air Mobility Inc., has signed a purchase agreement for up to 150 Cessna Grand Caravan EX single-engine turboprop aircraft, with an initial fleet order of 100 aircraft and an option for 50 more. The order is part of an exclusive relationship between the two companies supporting Surf Air Mobility’s development of an electrified Cessna Grand Caravan,, beginning with a hybrid electric aircraft powered by Surf Air Mobility’s proprietary powertrain technology.
Surf Air Mobility, a company accelerating the adoption of electric regional air travel, anticipates installing its hybrid electric system on a 9-seat variant the Grand Caravan, with initial deliveries of the Grand Caravan in Q2 2022.
“Hybrid electric propulsion technology, deployed at scale for environmental and commercial benefits, is an important part of the future of travel,” said Ron Draper, president and CEO, Textron Aviation. “This relationship with Surf Air Mobility leverages the unique performance capabilities of the Cessna Grand Caravan in both passenger and cargo operations and continues to demonstrate the aircraft’s adaptability for innovative missions and configurations.”
“This is an opportunity to showcase the combined expertise and technologies of both Textron Aviation and Surf Air Mobility,” said Rob Scholl, senior vice president for the company’s new division focused on sustainable aviation, Textron eAviation. “The outstanding capabilities and versatility of the Grand Caravan make it an ideal aircraft to take advantage of this new technology.” The transactions between Textron Aviation and Surf Air Mobility are subject to certain closing conditions, including the receipt of financing by Surf Air Mobility.
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