Now the plane will fly from the battery; Air Canada buys electric plane

Air Canada announced the purchase of 30 electric-hybrid aircraft to reduce aircraft emissions and combat climate change.

Air Canada announced Thursday that it will purchase 30 electric-hybrid aircraft under development by Sweden's Hart Aerospace. The aircraft will prepare seating arrangements for up to 30 passengers to enter service by 2028. Using battery power, this aircraft will generate zero emissions and generate significant operational savings. Air Canada has also acquired a $5 million equity stake in the Swedish manufacturer. 

This brings Air Canada closer to its goal of reaching net-zero emissions by 2050. By providing low-emissions connectivity to local communities, the ES-30 will enable Air Canada to service regional and commuter routes more sustainably. 

Air Canada's President and CEO, Michael Russo, said: "Air Canada has taken a leadership position in the industry in addressing climate change. The ES-30 electric regional aircraft from Hart Aerospace will be a step towards our goal of net zero emissions by 2050.

According to Russo, the airline is also developing sustainable aviation fuel and carbon capture systems to reduce its CO2 emissions. In April, Air Canada operated four flights from San Francisco to its Canadian bases in Toronto, Vancouver, Calgary and Montreal, using sustainable aviation fuel sourced from oil refining company Neste.

According to Air Canada, the range can increase to 249 miles when the battery is supplemented by a generator and the 497-mile capacity is limited to only 25 people. 

Anders Forslund, CEO and Founder of Hart Aerospace, said: "Air Canada is a strategically important partner for Hart Aerospace. The company has one of the largest networks in the world powered by regional turboprops. It is also a progressive, futuristic company, especially in green transmission.