By equipping a BAe 146 with electrically powered engines, the American start-up Wright Electric wants to enable sustainable flights with up to 100 passengers by 2027. The aircraft, whose design dates from the 1980s, should be able to cover 750 kilometers.

The four jet engines of the BAe 146 are to be replaced by fuel- and zero-emission electric engines. The type could fly between, for example, Paris and London, New York and Boston or Rio de Janeiro and Sao Paulo.

Wright Electric has been working on a completely redesigned aircraft for some time, but according to CEO Jeffrey Engler, airlines want to be able to fly without emissions sooner. "Converting an aircraft always has drawbacks, but at least it is already certified."

Wright works closely with EasyJet. The British will assist Wright with practical advice and assistance. The Mexican airline Viva Aerobus is also involved in the project.

The British Aerospace (BAe) 146 can accommodate 100 passengers, the yet to be built Wright 1, which is due to be launched on the market in 2030, will have capacity for 186 passengers and a range of just under 1,500 kilometres.

--- DB4 - Oct 12 2021
* Origin: AVIATION ECHO HQ (2:292/854)