Kahului, Hawaii based Mokulele Airlines has joined with California-based Ampaire to begin testing the second prototype Cessna 337 “Electric EEL” hybrid-electric aircraft conversion. Ampaire successfully flew the second demonstrator on September 10. The new prototype builds on previous aircraft that the company has test flown in other markets.
Ampaire’s Second Hybrid-Electric Preps for Flight Trials in Hawaii
Key Takeaways:
- Mokulele Airlines has partnered with Ampaire to begin testing the second prototype Cessna 337 “Electric EEL” hybrid-electric aircraft conversion.
- Dubbed the "Hawai'i Bird," this aircraft will conduct demonstration flights on Hawaiian air routes, marking the first time an electrically powered aircraft will fly under an FAA "market survey" experimental certificate for real-world experience.
- The hybrid-electric aircraft aims to cut direct operating costs and emissions by 40 to 50 percent, supporting Hawaii's goal of 100 percent renewable energy by 2045.
- Key design updates include relocating the battery pack to an aero-optimized shell on the fuselage underside to free cabin space and an improved, liquid-cooled electric power unit (EPU) for better efficiency.
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