This website uses cookies
More information
Business Air News Bulletin
Business Air News Bulletin
The monthly news publication for aviation professionals.
Related background information from the Handbook...
The monthly news publication for aviation professionals.

Request your printed copy

MTU injects cash into Silent Air Taxi project
The Silent Air Taxi by e.SAT is expected to enter service in 2024, two years after its maiden flight. Sound finances and powerplant expertise are required to achieve this aim, which is where MTU Aero Engines comes in.
The Silent Air Taxi has been designed to carry up to five passengers.

MTU Aero Engines of Munich, Germany has signed a letter of intent with Aachen-based e.SAT to take a stake in e.SAT's Silent Air Taxi. Touted as hybrid, safe and practically noiseless, the aircraft is capable of carrying five passengers. MTU has agreed to work on the development and production of the hybrid-electric powertrain for the new aircraft and acquire shares in the recently founded company to the tune of 10 million euros.

“The Silent Air Taxi is a very ambitious endeavour and a promising concept for the future,” comments MTU COO Lars Wagner. “The prospects are good for the project to become a reality. It perfectly fits into our technology initiative on alternative propulsion systems. This is why we not only contribute our expertise but also take a financial stake in the company.” Responsibility for the development of the hybrid-electric powerplant rests with e.SAT Powertrain, a subsidiary of e.SAT.

“We are highly pleased to have MTU Aero Engines with its one-of-a-kind expertise in the field of aircraft propulsion systems on board,” emphasises Peter Jeschke, co-CEO of e.SAT alongside Frank Janser. Janser adds: “Innovative air mobility, as we understand it, must be rigorously aligned with customer requirements. These include shorter travel times, punctuality and flexible response to individual needs.”

CFO Günther Schuh also signed the LOI: “This air taxi with its advanced hybrid-electrical powertrain and aerodynamically optimised box wing design will take some of the load off conventional transportation systems in a cost-effective manner and significantly reduce individual travel times,” he remarks.

The Silent Air Taxi is expected to enter service in 2024, two years after its maiden flight.

Signing for MTU was senior VP of technology and advanced programmes Stefan Weber. He notes: “As an aviation company holding all relevant approvals, we will be involved in the design, development and production as well as certification of the powertrain. In addition, we can bring our expertise in the field of engine control systems to the table.

“This innovative small aircraft might prove a perfectly suitable demonstrator for the development of emerging technology innovations.” Conceivable options include the use of synthetic (electricity-based) fuels and fuel cells to leverage further optimisation potentials and pave the way towards emission-free air traffic.

The partners plan to negotiate the details of their cooperation and shareholder relationship by late October, with the aim being to wrap up the contract before the end of the year.

Other News
 
Ampaire conducts hybrid electric ground test with pure SAF
February 26, 2024
Ampaire's aircraft technology already reduces the amount of fuel combusted during flight. That, combined with Dimensional Energy's 100 per cent SAF, quickens the pace up the steep curve of the energy transition.
Turbotech and Safran test first hydrogen turboprop for light aircraft
February 2, 2024
This successful test of a hydrogen-fuelled gas turbine engine is part of a project that leverages ArianeGroup’s decades-long experience with hydrogen propulsion for the Ariane rocket.
MEHAIR orders hydrogen-electric engines for Caravans
January 23, 2024
The regional airline will retrofit the clean engines to its fleet of wheeled and amphibious Caravans for last-mile connectivity across runways and waterways.