GE Aerospace, BETA Technologies complete first hybrid electric-assisted commercial aircraft takeoff
BETA•GE Aerospace and BETA Technologies completed what they called the world's first hybrid electric-assisted takeoff of a commercial aircraft, using electric motors and batteries to supplement the gas engines on a modified Saab 340B.
1. Hybrid-assisted takeoff
GE Aerospace partnered with BETA Technologies to complete the takeoff. Early observations indicated less takeoff noise than with gas engines alone.
2. RISE program target
The milestone advances hybrid electric technology under the CFM RISE program, which targets more than 20% better fuel burn than current commercial engines.
