Cape Air (9K, Hyannis) has announced plans to purchase 75 all-electric Alice aircraft from manufacturer Eviation (Arlington, WA), representing another step toward electric fleets in the US commuter airline market.
The airline has signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) with the Israeli-founded manufacturer, now headquartered in Arlington, Washington state, where it unveiled the Alice commuter variant in 2021. The aircraft accommodates nine passengers and two crew members. It is designed to fly 440 nautical miles (about 815 km) on a single charge and has a maximum cruise speed of 250 knots (463km/h).
"Alice will operate in all environments currently serviced by piston and turbine aircraft. The advanced electric motors have fewer moving parts to increase reliability and reduce maintenance costs. Its operating software constantly monitors flight performance to ensure optimal efficiency," the manufacturer said in a statement. The aircraft will be available in three different versions: daily commuter, executive, and cargo.
For Cape Air, the aircraft will mean environmental efficiency, reduced maintenance and operational costs, and smoother and quieter flights for its passengers. "Cape Air remains committed to sustainability, growth, and innovation, and our partnership with Eviation allows for these commitments to become a reality," added Cape Air President and Chief Executive Officer Linda Markham.
Cape Air flies more than 400 regional flights a day to nearly 40 cities in the Northeast, Midwest, Montana, and the Caribbean with a fleet of 108 aircraft, consisting of BN-2, Cessna (single turboprop) 208 Caravan, Cessna (twin piston) 402, and Tecnam P2012 models. The latest order from Eviation is its largest current purchase commitment.
The announcement follows that of competitor Southern Airways Express (9X, Memphis International), which is targeting late 2025 for the introduction on US East Coast routes of the first of 20 all-electric Regent Craft (North Kingstown) Seagliders, a new type of wing-in-ground-effect (WIG) electric vehicle.
