‘Historic moment’ as Loganair purchases five all-electric planes
LOGANAIR has purchased five all-electric aircraft to join its fleet, with the planes expected to enter service in 2029.
The company said it will become the first commercial airline in Europe to operate an electric fleet following successful trials in the Highlands and Islands in March of this year.
The new electric aircraft will support passenger and cargo operations, with Loganair having the option to buy five more planes in the future.
The airline made the announcement at the Farnborough International Airshow today (Monday).
Loganair said last year that a hybrid electric plane could be flying passengers from Sumburgh to destinations such as Orkney, Aberdeen and Glasgow by 2030.
Now it has put five all-electric aircraft made by American firm BETA Technologies at the heart of its future.
The ALIA CX300 aircraft will operate from existing runways and can recharge in 20 to 40 minutes using BETA’s fast-charging systems, Loganair said.
The company’s chief executive Luke Farajallah hailed the news as a major leap forward.
“This is a truly historic moment for Loganair and for European aviation,” he said.
“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 per cent 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.”
Loganair said the agreement marked a “significant step towards bringing electric aviation into commercial routes across the UK” and added the move would “ensure Loganair becomes Europe’s first commercial airline operating an electric aircraft fleet.”
The airline flew 23 flights in 10 days across its network using electric aircraft in March, covering more than 1,000 nautical miles during that time.
Expected to enter service in 2029, Loganair the all-electric aircraft will support passenger and cargo operations, “delivering greater operational flexibility with lower operating costs and zero in-flight emissions.”
The agreement also includes plans for technical support and integration to ensure the aircraft can be introduced into Loganair’s existing fleet.
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