Surf Air Mobility confirmed and made the deposit for the first 20 Cessna Grand Caravan EX, which are part of an order for 100 aircraft with an option for another 50.
Deliveries will begin during the first half of 2024, and Surf Air Mobility intends to modify the Grand Caravan EX to equip them with its electric or hybrid-electric powertrain technology, aiming to obtain the supplemental type certificate from the Federal Aviation Administration of the United States in 2026.
The company will deploy the fleet of hybrid Grand Caravan EXs across its network in the United States with the goal of creating a massive regional transportation system that connects communities sustainably.
In this regard, last month Surf Air Mobility completed the purchase of Southern Airways, a US regional airline that in 2022 transported 450,000 passengers across 48 cities with a fleet of more than 40 aircraft models including Cessna Caravan, King Air Super 200, and Pilatus PC-12.
As part of its partnership with Textron Aviation, Surf Air Mobility will be the exclusive supplier of certain types of batteries and electric equipment for the Cessna Grand Caravan.
“The Cessna Caravan’s adaptability for passenger and cargo operations makes it an ideal platform for hybrid electric and electric propulsion innovations. This exclusive relationship demonstrates Textron Aviation’s commitment to the future of sustainable flight,” said Lannie O’Bannion, Senior Vice President of Global Sales and Flight Operations.
“Our relationship with Textron Aviation is paramount in our mission to revolutionize air travel. TThis initial fleet delivery solidifies our commitment to bringing advanced electric aircraft to market to reduce fuel emissions and the cost of air travel,” added Sudhin Shahani, co-founder of Surf Air Mobility.
See also: Surf Air Mobility acquires Southern Airways Corporation to boost hybrid-electric airplanes
