Dutch Startup Elysian Says Electric Flight Could Be Just Around the Corner

Dutch startup Elysian Aircraft is working on an all-electric commercial airliner, the E9X, which promises to reduce emissions to zero on nearly 50% of scheduled commercial passenger flights worldwide. The E9X is designed to carry up to 100 passengers up to 1,000 km (~620 miles) and is expected to enter service in 2034.

The aircraft features modular battery packs in its oversized wings, powering six propellers driven by electric motors. Elysian has completed its second conceptual design review and flown a scaled demonstrator, and is working with airline partners KLM and Transavia to explore operational and commercial requirements.

The company believes its electric airliner could eliminate 20% of total in-flight emissions. With the aviation industry accounting for over 2% of global heating, Elysian’s innovation could make a significant impact on reducing emissions.