On February 19, 2024, Aura Aero, a French electric aviation startup, marked a significant milestone in the development of sustainable aviation technologies with the successful first power-on of its INTEGRAL E all-electric prototype aircraft. This event took place at the company’s Toulouse-Francazal facilities, located in southern France, signaling a leap forward in the quest for eco-friendly aviation solutions.
The INTEGRAL E, a two-seater light aircraft, is at the forefront of Aura Aero’s innovative efforts to transform the aviation industry. This prototype serves not only as a testament to the feasibility of electric flight but also as a foundation for the development of Aura Aero’s ambitious ERA project—a 19-seater hybrid-electric regional aircraft designed to significantly reduce the carbon footprint of air travel.
Aura Aero is concurrently advancing both the INTEGRAL E and ERA aircraft programs, utilizing the former as a crucial testbed for electric propulsion technologies. These technologies are expected to be scaled and adapted for use in the larger ERA airliner. The company has announced plans to commence the INTEGRAL E flight test campaign in the coming weeks, with an objective to see the aircraft enter service by no later than 2026.
Previously, Aura Aero has developed and flight-tested the INTEGRAL R and S models, which are conventionally powered by fossil fuels. These versions of the two-seater aircraft have laid the groundwork for the transition to electric propulsion. Additionally, Aura Aero is exploring the development of a tow-plane version of the INTEGRAL E, in collaboration with the French Gliding Federation (FFVP), further emphasizing its commitment to sustainable aviation practices.
Behind the Scenes at Aura Aero: As a rising star in the low carbon aviation industry, Aura Aero is not only focused on technological innovation but also on fostering partnerships and collaborations that advance its sustainability goals. By working closely with organizations like the FFVP, Aura Aero is building a supportive ecosystem for the adoption of electric aviation technologies across different sectors of the industry.
In conclusion, Aura Aero’s pioneering projects, including the INTEGRAL E and the forthcoming ERA aircraft, represent critical steps towards the realization of sustainable, low-carbon air travel. Through its dedication to innovation and sustainability, Aura Aero is setting new standards in the aviation industry and contributing to the global effort to combat climate change.