In the first phase of converting their fleet to all-electric, Harbour Air successfully tested the world’s first electric commercial aircraft this morning.
The historic test flight landed at the seaplane terminal in Richmond on Tuesday morning after a triumphant journey.
According to the company, the aircraft is retrofitted with a 750 horsepower all-electric magni500 propulsion system.
Back in March 2019, the airline announced their partnership with engineering company, magniX, to convert all of their seaplanes into an all-electric commercial fleet.
“Harbour Air first demonstrated its commitment to sustainability by becoming the first fully carbon-neutral airline in North America in 2007, through the purchase of carbon offsets,” said Greg McDougall, founder and CEO of Harbour Air Seaplanes in a statement in March.
“Through our commitment to making a positive impact on people’s lives, the communities where we operate and the environment, we are once again pushing the boundaries of aviation by becoming the first aircraft to be powered by electric propulsion.”
The new short-haul passenger planes produce zero emissions and will have zero reliance on fossil fuels.
Harbour Air has been in operation for 37 years, and is North America’s largest seaplane airline.
It services over 500,000 passengers on 30,000 flights each year, including flights between Victoria, Vancouver, Nanaimo, Tofino, Salt Spring Island, Whistler, Richmond, and more.
You can watch a full video of the test flight at this website.
