Republic Airways signs MoU as strategic advisor for Aura Aero’s ERA 19-seater
Republic Airways (Republic) and Aura Aero, the French aircraft manufacturer and pioneer in decarbonised aviation, have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) regarding the development of the ERA, an electric-thrust 19-seater regional aircraft.
Republic Airways is one of the largest regional airlines in North America, headquartered in Indianapolis. It operates over 200 Embraer E170/175 aircraft with flights to nearly 100 destinations daily. Republic employs over 6,000 aviation professionals and flies exclusively for Delta Air Lines, American Airlines and United Airlines.
This MoU sets forth the cooperation between Aura Aero and Republic with respect to the assistance Republic will provide on the ERA program. Primarily, Republic will provide support for the technical and commercial development of the ERA. Republic’s expertise in regional aviation will enhance Aura Aero’s ability to design and certify a sustainable aircraft that will be commercially viable in the highly competitive North American regional market.
ERA is a brand new eco-responsible aircraft. Concentrating many avionic, aerodynamic and propelling innovations. Its developers say it is an exceptionally versatile aircraft, capable of transporting 19 passengers or 1.9 tons of freight. It can also be configured for business aviation with its pressurized cabin and an unrivalled level of passenger comfort on this type of aircraft. It has a range of up to 1,600km and can land at the largest international airports as well as on short, unprepared runways.
ERA’s first entry into commercial service is planned before 2030. It already boasts an orderbook close to 350 Letters of Intent/MoUs, representing a total of around €3.5 Billion. Whether it is for connecting islands/archipelagos or providing direct flights between regional locations, the aircraft is said to address the environmental challenges of the 21st century, reducing CO2 emissions by up to 80% compared to thermal aircraft in the same category.
Jérémy Caussade, president and co-founder of Aura Aero said: “We are very proud to have Republic advising us on the requirements needed for a competitive aircraft in North America. At Aura Aero we are convinced that electric is the future of regional aviation, and we want to pave the way for this revolution.”
Consider a free digital subscription
If you find this article informative, consider subscribing digitally to Aerospace Manufacturing for free. Keep up to date with the latest industry news in your inbox as well as being the first to receive our magazine in digital form.
