Brazil-based on demand air charter platform Flapper has agreed to purchase up to 20 magni650 electric propulsion units (EPUs) from magniX to convert its Cessna Caravans to electric aircraft by 2024.

Flapper currently uses Caravans for its scheduled service in the state of São Paulo, as well as cargo flights across Latin America. By partnering with magniX, the company aims to decrease operating costs, reduce carbon emissions and activate new routes abandoned by regional aviation years ago. In the 1960s, Brazil used to have more than 260 airports connected by scheduled flights, compared to only roughly 110 today.

“We are excited to partner with a company considered the leader of the electric aviation industry,” says Flapper CEO Paul Malicki. “Together we will work towards promoting clean and cost-effective aviation in Latin America with safety as our top priority.”

The propulsion technology offered by magniX has a proven capacity to power a range of different aircraft. With high levels of reliability, unparalleled performance and operational practicality, magniX EPUs can work with multiple sources of energy, including batteries and fuel cells.

“Our agreement with Flapper paves the way for zero-emission passenger and cargo air transportation across Brazil and Latin America,” adds magniX CEO Roei Ganzarski. “Through the electrification of the Caravan planes, we are not only providing cleaner transportation, but opening up access to airports no longer in use due to noise from traditional aircraft. Together, our companies are ushering in the new age of electric flight across one of the world's most populated regions.”

As a part of the agreement Flapper will assist magniX with planning, reviewing and coordinating all aspects of certification processes, according to the requirements of the local civil aviation authorities. This includes jointly orchestrating the project, providing technical advice and conducting flight tests to demonstrate compliance.