On Tuesday, Washington-based Eviation Aircraft, the EV aviation pioneer that has been owned since 2019 by Singapore conglomerate Clermont Group, announcing that it is partnering with private jet operator Clay Lacy Aviation to provide electric charging as part of its Fixed Based Operator (FBO) services. The deal is the first FBO agreement for Eviation allowing for the charging of its nine-passenger, zero-emission EV aircraft, Alice, at all Clay Lacy FBO’s, ahead of Alice’s anticipated service rollout in 2024.
The partnership is in alignment with Clay Lacy Aviation’s 2020 sustainability strategy to reduce its own carbon footprint and the impact of its clients.
“Clay Lacy has long prided itself on industry firsts and we are now adding yet another through our partnership with Eviation,” said Clay Lacy Aviation President and CEO Brian Kirkdoffer. “One of those firsts was introducing the first carbon offset program and a robust sustainability strategy in the aircraft management industry. We are proud to take that a giant step further with charging the zero-emission Alice at our FBOs.”
“This partnership is just the beginning for Eviation as we look to build out the supporting infrastructure needed to bring electric aviation to life,” said Eviation CEO Omer Bar-Yohay. “With a network of visionary FBOs, we can ensure accessible, quick and seamless charging as we march toward a cleaner aviation future.”
“Now, operators can choose to make the financially and environmentally sustainable choice for their aircraft,” said Roei Ganzarski, executive chairman of Eviation. “With partners like Clay Lacy Aviation we are bringing the option of low-cost, clean electric flight closer to more and more communities.”
Last month, Eviation scored a landmark deal with cargo express service provider DHL Express, which ordered 12 fully electric Alice eCargo planes for delivery in 2024.
Alice is designed to be flown by a single pilot and will carry 2,600 lbs (1,250 kilograms). It will require 30 minutes or less to charge per flight hour and have a maximum range of up to 440 nautical miles (815 kilometers). Alice will operate in all environments currently serviced by piston and turbine aircraft. Alice’s 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 aircraft is ideal for feeder routes and requires less investment in station infrastructure.
