Case Study
Case Study: Ampaire
Ampaire is a global leader in the development of Hybrid-Electric Aircraft and the retrofit of electric propulsion systems to aircraft. Ampaire’s initial series hybrid electric system aims to cut fuel and maintenance costs by 25% to 30% for small workhorse airplanes like the Cessna Caravan and DHC Twin Otter seating between nine and 19 passengers, with no loss in range compared to conventional versions.
The South West is renowned for its aerospace excellence, the investment landscape, and support at government level. An added benefit for Ampaire was the forward-looking approach to certification of Novel Electric Propulsion Aircraft. The certification basis within the UK is already quite advanced, and the development process is eased versus areas of mainland Europe, with the provision of E-Conditions.
The South West of England also has an excellent aerospace supply chain, strong engineering talent and plenty of opportunity in the underdeveloped transport links. Ampaire was delighted with the support they received from Exeter Airport both in providing extensive data and information for informing the modelling and simulation research, but as importantly for facilitating a series of successful test flights with the Electric Eel.