Raytheon Technologies announced the successful first engine run of the company’s regional hybrid-electric flight demonstrator, marking an important step toward flight testing, which is scheduled to begin in 2024. At the Pratt & Whitney innovation centre in Longueuil, Quebec, the propulsion system underwent its initial test, and it passed with flying colours.
The system combines an extremely effective Pratt & Whitney fuel-burning engine made specifically for hybrid-electric operation with a 1 MW electric motor created by Collins Aerospace. In comparison to the most technologically advanced regional turboprop aircraft currently available, this engine technology will enable more efficient engine performance during various flight phases such as takeoff, climb, and cruise, reducing fuel burn and CO2 emissions by up to 30%.