Hybrid-Electric Propulsion Developer Ampaire Acquires Magpie Aviation

The company will inherit several pending patents and government contracts to ramp up development of its hybrid-electric propulsion system.

Jack Daleo

Monday, March 04, 2024 at 02:01 PM ET

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Ampaire’s flagship nine-seat Eco Caravan (left) could be towed by electrified tow aircraft from Magpie. [Courtesy: Ampaire]

Key Takeaways:

Ampaire acquired Magpie Aviation to integrate its "Aerotowing" solution, which uses electrified tow aircraft to significantly extend the range of electric and hybrid-electric planes, overcoming current battery limitations.
Magpie's Aerotowing technology involves autonomous in-air connections between an electrified main aircraft and tow aircraft, enabling longer flights and potential cost savings at scale.
The acquisition strengthens Ampaire's position in electrified aviation, expanding its capabilities for both commercial and defense customers, complementing its existing hybrid-electric propulsion systems and aircraft like the Eco Caravan.

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Ampaire, a developer of hybrid-electric propulsion systems and manufacturer of the Eco Caravan—a nine-seat, modified Cessna 208B Grand Caravan—believes it now holds the key to extending the range of electric and hybrid-electric aircraft.

The company on Monday announced its acquisition of electric aviation technology developer Magpie Aviation, including the company’s Aerotowing solution, for an undisclosed fee. Magpie Aerotowing uses electrified tow aircraft to stretch out the flight time of larger electric models.