Heart Aerospace, the Swedish hybrid -electric airplane maker, plans to conduct the first fully electric experimental flight of its demonstrator airplane, Heart Experimental 1 (Heart X1), at upstate New York’s Plattsburgh International Airport in 2025.
The first experimental flight of Heart X1, which is set to become the largest fully electric aircraft ever to fly, marks a critical milestone in Heart Aerospace’s development of its 30-seat hybrid-electric regional passenger aircraft, the ES-30.
With an all-electric, zero-emissions range of 200 kilometres and an extended hybrid range of 400 kilometres, the ES-30 promises unmatched sustainability and efficiency on short-haul routes. The initial experimental flight of the Heart X1 demonstrator is designed to validate the capabilities of Heart’s innovative electric propulsion technology.
Plattsburgh International Airport was chosen for its location in the Champlain Valley, an emerging hub for next-generation transportation. With expansive airfield infrastructure, low air traffic density, and strong community support for transportation technology initiatives, the airport offers an ideal environment for Heart Aerospace’s experimental flight.
“We’re thrilled to join Plattsburgh’s thriving aerospace community as we push the boundaries of air travel towards a cleaner, more sustainable future,” said Heart Aerospace’s co-founder and CEO Anders Forslund. “Electric commercial airplanes have the potential to lower operating costs for US airlines, creating a powerful opportunity to reestablish regional air routes that stimulate local economies, boost tourism, and enhance access to urban hubs. We’re impressed by the leadership shown by New York’s North Country region in the support of next generation airplanes.”
“Heart Aerospace’s decision to conduct its fully electric experimental flight from Plattsburgh International Airport reflects Clinton County’s strong commitment to advancing next-generation transportation technologies,” said Mark Henry, Clinton County Legislature Chairman. “Clinton County is strengthening its position as a transportation manufacturing cluster, and we are excited to be part of Heart’s journey and the growing sustainable aerospace community in upstate New York.”
The Heart X1 aircraft is currently undergoing extensive tests of critical systems to ensure a safe and successful flight in Plattsburgh next year and Heart Aerospace plans to bring it to Plattsburgh International in early 2025.
