Diamond Aircraft announced yesterday that it had successfully conducted the maiden flight of an eDA40 electric aeroplane.
The eDA40 is powered by an ENGINeUS electric smart motor by Safran Electrical and Power, with an Electric Power Systems battery module equipped with a Direct Current (DC) fast charging system.
The maiden flight was done on 20 July, piloted by Diamond’s Head of Flight Test Sören Pedersen, who did an initial flight evaluation.
“We are extremely proud to announce another significant milestone for our all-electric eDA40," said Liqun (Frank) Zhang, CEO Diamond Aircraft Austria.
"The aircraft performed outstandingly well during its maiden flight and not only met but exceeded all our expectations.
“We are very much looking forward to offer an exceptional sustainable aircraft for the flight training market of tomorrow.”
Bruno Bellanger, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Power division of Safran Electrical and Power, said collaborating with Diamond on the project had been both exciting and challenging for his company.
“We are very excited to take part in the eDA40 first flight, along with Diamond Aircraft, as it is the first time our ENGINeUS electric motors and the electrical protection system will fly on an all-electric aircraft.
"Participating in the electrification of the DA40, a proven aircraft and a best seller, has been a thrilling technical challenge. We have recently obtained Design Organisation Approval from the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) for our ENGINeUS 100 electric motor and are currently on the home stretch in obtaining their final certification.
"This state-of-the-art equipment is one of the essential building blocks in Safran’s decarbonisation strategy."
Diamond believes the eDA40 will be the first electric aircraft to be certified to FAR Part 23, and is aiming to have the type certificate by late 2023 or early 2024.