Maiden flight for all-electric cargo aircraft

The first-ever fully electric commuter plane, ‘Alice’ built by Eviation Aircraft, has completed its maiden flight as part of DHL Express’ programme for 12 e-cargo aircraft to electrify its global aviation network.

Alice lifted off yesterday from Grant County International Airport (MWH) in the US, flying for a total of eight minutes and reaching an altitude of 3,500 feet before landing at Moses Lake, Washington.

John Pearson, CEO DHL Express, said: “Our compliments to Eviation on the successful first flight of Alice. Completing its maiden flight confirms our belief that the era of sustainable aviation is here.

“With our order of 12 Alice e-cargo planes, we are investing towards our overall goal of net-zero emissions logistics.

“Alice’s range and capacity makes it a unique sustainable solution for our global aviation network, supporting our aspiration to make a substantial contribution in reducing our carbon footprint and ultimately, achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.”