US regional airline Republic Airways has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to become a strategic advisor for AURA AERO’s ERA 19-seater programme.
AURA AERO has been making efforts to target the North American regional market for its new electric-thrust regional transport aircraft.
As one of the largest regional airlines in North America, Republic Airways operates over 200 Embraer E170/175 aircraft with flights to nearly 100 destinations. As part of this MoU, Republic Airways will primarily provide support for the commercial and technical development of the ERA.
The airline’s expertise in regional aviation will enhance the French aircraft manufacturer’s work to design and certify an aircraft that is commercially viable in the North American regional market.
Jérémy Caussade, President and co-founder of AURA AERO, said: “We are very proud to have Republic advising us on the requirements needed for a competitive aircraft in North America. At AURA AERO, we are convinced that electric is the future of regional aviation, and we want to pave the way for this revolution.”
The future of regional aviation
Described as a ‘brand new eco-responsible aircraft’, ERA will address environmental challenges, reducing CO2 emissions by up to 80%. The aircraft will also provide an economical solution for its customers in terms of both energy and maintenance costs.
It aims to concentrate on avionic, aerodynamic and propelling innovations. In May, it signed a contract with Thales to develop a new generation of avionics systems as part of its ERA programme partnership.
The ERA is capable of transporting 19 passengers or 1.9 tons of freight. It can also be configured for business aviation. It has a range of up to 1,600 km and can land at the largest international runways or short, unprepared runways with its STOL capabilities.
It currently has an orderbook of nearly 350 Letters of Intent and MoUs totalling €3.5 billion. AURA AERO has plans for the ERA to enter commercial service by 2028.
