Raytheon Technologies successfully completes first engine run of regional hybrid-electric flight demonstrator

Raytheon Technologies have announced that it has successfully completed the first engine run of the company’s regional hybrid-electric flight demonstrator.

The propulsion system’s initial run took place at Pratt & Whitney’s innovation facility in Longueuil, Quebec. The system fully integrates a 1 MW electric motor developed by Collins Aerospace with a Pratt & Whitney fuel-burning engine, specially adapted for hybrid-electric operation.

This achievement marks a key milestone towards flight testing, anticipated to begin in 2024. The Flight Test Centre of Excellence (Cert Center Canada – 3C) will modify and operate the De Havilland Canada Dash 8-100 aircraft, serving as the platform for future flight demonstrations.

3C has a Quebec team that includes Chrono Aviation, WAAS Aerospace, and Elisen to integrate the hybrid-electric powertrain, battery system, and high voltage electrical harness into 3C’s Dash 8 research aircraft.

“With our ground test program now well underway, planned flight testing will enable us to accelerate the demonstration of this next generation sustainable propulsion technology as we continue to expand our collaboration within Canada’s aerospace ecosystem and beyond,” said Jean Thomassin, executive director new products and services, Pratt & Whitney Canada.