Key Points:

  • Azul Conecta, a subsidiary of Azul airlines, announced a partnership with Surf Air Mobility to transform its Cessna Caravan fleet into electric aircraft.

  • Surf Air Mobility, a California-based startup, aims to create a network of efficient short-haul flights using electric planes for quicker, more eco-friendly travel.

  • Azul Conecta plans to convert its 27 Caravan aircraft, with Surf Air targeting 2026 for full certification of the electric Caravan.


Azul Conecta's Eco-Friendly Aviation Leap with Surf Air Mobility

Azul Conecta, the regional arm of Brazilian airline Azul, revealed its latest initiative in collaboration with Surf Air Mobility: transitioning its Cessna Caravan turboprops into fully electric aircraft. This move signifies a significant step toward sustainable aviation. California-based Surf Air Mobility, focusing on establishing a network of short-distance flights in the U.S., will be spearheading the conversion of these aircraft. The partnership aims to facilitate efficient and environmentally friendly air travel, leveraging the reduced operational costs and emissions of electric aircraft.

Surf Air's vision involves creating an air travel network utilizing smaller, less congested airports to offer semi-executive flights at competitive prices and reduced journey times. The company projects that electric Caravans could significantly cut travel time compared to both road travel and conventional commercial flights, citing an example of a journey between San Diego and Los Angeles.

The Impact of Electric Conversion on Azul Conecta's Operations

Azul Conecta, currently operating a fleet of 27 Caravan aircraft across an extensive network in Brazil, is yet to announce a specific timeline for the conversion program. The partnership with Surf Air Mobility marks a major shift towards sustainable air travel in the region. The switch to electric motors not only promises to eliminate pollutant emissions but also to achieve a 50% reduction in operational costs, positioning Azul Conecta to lead in eco-efficient regional air travel.

Surf Air Mobility is working towards obtaining certification for the fully electric Caravan by 2026. The startup plans to receive the first batch of these planes in 2024 to commence the conversion process. This innovative technology, developed by Surf Air Mobility, also includes a partnership to supply electric motors to aircraft manufacturer Textron. The collaboration between Azul Conecta and Surf Air Mobility is a significant step towards modernizing the regional aviation sector with a strong focus on environmental sustainability and operational efficiency.