Republic Airways and AURA AERO have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) for the development of the 19-seat electric regional aircraft called ERA.
The MoU lays the foundation for cooperation between AURA AERO and Republic in terms of Republic’s support for the ERA program. Republic will essentially provide support in terms of technical and commercial development of the ERA.
Republic Airways is a U.S. regional airline based in Indianapolis, Indiana. It operates more than 200 Embraer E170/175 aircraft to nearly 100 daily destinations. The airline’s workforce exceeds 6,000 aviation professionals and exclusively flies for Delta Air Lines, American Airlines, and United Airlines.
Republic’s experience in regional aviation will enhance AURA AERO‘s ability to design and certify a commercially viable and environmentally friendly aircraft in the highly competitive North American market.
Jérémy Caussade, President and Co-founder of AURA AERO, said: “We are very proud that Republic advises us on the needs of a competitive aircraft in North America. At AURA AERO, we are convinced that electric power is the future of regional aviation, and we are only at the beginning of this revolution!”
Project ERA
ERA is an aircraft that employs a set of innovations in avionics, aerodynamics, and propulsion, providing a solution to the decarbonization of regional aviation. It can transport 19 passengers or 1.9 tons of cargo and can also be configured for business aviation.
It features a pressurized cabin and can fly up to 1,600 km, landing at both major international airports and short, unprepared runways.
AURA AERO anticipates the aircraft’s entry into service before 2030. ERA already has a portfolio of nearly 350 orders and memoranda of understanding, representing a total value of almost 3.5 billion euros. The aircraft will reduce CO₂ emissions per flight by up to 80% compared to combustion-powered aircraft in the same category.
