Loganair agrees deal to acquire first electric aircraft

Loganair is purchasing five all-electric aircraft with options for five more after a 10-day trial period in March.

 

The ALIA CX300 aircraft are expected to enter service in 2029 to support passenger and cargo operations across the regional airline’s network, “delivering greater operational flexibility with lower operating costs and zero in-flight emissions”.

 

The agreement with manufacturer BETA Technologies, for an undisclosed sum, also includes plans for technical support and integration to ensure the aircraft can be introduced seamlessly into Loganair’s existing fleet.

 

The move, unveiled at the Farnborough International Airshow, will see Loganair becoming Europe’s first commercial airline operating an electric aircraft fleet. 

 

Most of Loganair’s regional sectors are under 100 miles in distance, within the CX300’s range.

 

The aircraft operates from existing runways and recharges in 20 to 40 minutes using fast-charging systems

 

The UK, and Scotland in particular, are seen as a natural first market for commercial electric flights, with island and remote communities depending on short routes that road and rail cannot serve.

 

The CX300 flew 23 flights in 10 days across Loganair’s network in March, connecting Glasgow, Dundee, Aberdeen, Inverness, Wick and Kirkwall.

 

The aircraft covered more than 1,000 nautical miles in real-world operational conditions, flying to some of Scotland’s most remote communities and validating performance, ground handling, charging and integration into existing airport and airspace systems.

 

Loganair chief executive Luke Farajallah said: "This is a truly historic moment for Loganair and for European aviation.

 

“Our demonstration programme earlier this year proved that electric aviation is no longer a future concept, it is a viable commercial opportunity.

 

“The aircraft demonstrated the potential to reduce operating costs by up to 80% while maintaining the reliable regional connectivity our customers and communities depend on.

 

"Signing this agreement is the natural next step in that journey. It reflects our confidence in the technology, our partnership with BETA, and our ambition to remain at the forefront of sustainable regional aviation.

 

“We look forward to working together as we prepare to bring these aircraft into commercial service."

 

BETA Technologies founder and chief executive Kyle Clark added: "Loganair has spent six decades connecting communities that rely on air travel, so their standard for new technology is appropriately high.

 

“We met that standard the only way it can be met, by flying more than a thousand nautical miles across their network, on their routes, and in their conditions.

 

“This agreement is what happens when demonstrated performance meets an operator serious about the future of regional aviation."