Letter of intent converted to firm orders... 

Swedish aircraft investment and leasing company Rockton will acquire up to 40 regional electric aircraft from Heart Aerospace's ES-30, converting an earlier letter of intent with the Swedish aircraft manufacturer into firm orders for 20 aircraft with purchase rights for another 20. "Leasing companies together own more than half of the world's aircraft fleet, making them a key player in the industry's transition to new and more sustainable technologies. Rockton focuses exclusively on investing in new technologies that mitigate the negative climate impacts of aviation and says the industry's goal of achieving net zero emissions by 2050 is driving demand for sustainable solutions," Heart Aerospace commented.

...For 20 aircraft with purchase rights for 20 more

"The industry's interest and need to enable a sustainable transition is growing by the day and the ES-30 is the most promising technology available for the regional aircraft segment. Its hybrid standby configuration offers significant range and payload for the commercial aviation market, and the aircraft will be continually upgraded as new and improved battery technologies become available, making it an asset with enhanced performance the longer you own it," said Niklas Lund, Rockton's CEO.

A 400-kilometer hybrid range

The ES-30 is an electric regional jet with a standard 30-passenger capacity, powered by electric motors with battery-derived power. It will have an all-electric, emission-free range of 200 kilometers, an extended hybrid range of 400 kilometers with 30 passengers, and the ability to fly up to 800 kilometers with 25 passengers, all within the airlines' usual reserves. The ES-30 is expected to enter service in 2028. "The Nordic region will be a leader in the adoption of electric aviation with several concrete infrastructure projects already underway. As a Swedish leasing company, Rockton is clearly part of this pioneering spirit and we are pleased to have them as a partner," said Simon Newitt, Heart Aerospace commercial director. The aircraft manufacturer now has a total of 250 firm orders for the ES-30, with options and purchase rights for another 120 aircraft. The company also has letters of intent for another 91 aircraft.