Finland-based air mobility platform Lygg has signed a memorandum of understanding with Ampaire, a US technology leader in converting existing aircraft into hybrid-electric, that includes up to 200 Ampaire STC (supplemental type certificate) conversion kits for existing aircraft. The rollout will begin by upgrading the engines of the 12-seat Cessna Grand Caravan, subsequently expanding to larger aircraft, up to 70 seats in size.

“At Ampaire, our mission is to make sustainable aviation accessible and practical for operators today, not in some distant future. This partnership with Lygg allows us to bring our hybrid-electric technology to underserved regions, proving that cleaner, lower cost, more efficient aviation is within reach, starting now,” says Kevin Noertker, Ampaire co-founder and CEO.

Ampaire’s AMP Drive powertrain combines a fuel-efficient engine with electric propulsion, optimising fuel savings and reducing emissions by up to 50 per cent. Additionally, as the system is fully compatible with sustainable aviation fuel, further emission reductions can be achieved.

“This partnership marks a major step toward sustainable aviation. We’re proud to be among the first to bring hybrid-electric aircraft to market, leveraging its benefits to create substantial value for our stakeholders,” says Roope Kekäläinen, Lygg CEO and co-founder. “With this collaboration, Lygg can offer customers more sustainable flights, significantly reducing the environmental impact of each journey. This technology enables Lygg to serve communities with more sustainable aviation options, aligning with our commitment to a sustainable future.”

The collaboration builds on Lygg’s earlier partnership with Electra; a 300 aircraft deal valued at over one billion euros. Lygg offers a direct path to commercial business for Electra aircraft through its corporate customer network and operators, providing financing and a profitable business. With these aircraft alone, Lygg can transport more than 10 million passengers per year, which is more than 60 per cent of Helsinki-Vantaa airport’s total international traffic this year.

“Our collaborations with Ampaire and Electra reflect Lygg’s commitment to sustainable aviation, providing solutions for today and for the future. Ampaire’s hybrid technology offers an immediate step forward, while Electra’s capabilities prepare us up for 2028 and beyond, solidifying Lygg’s role in leading regional aviation toward zero emissions,” Kekäläinen notes.