A rendering of VoltAero’s Cassio 330.
VoltAero is expanding North American support for its Cassio electric-hybird aircraft through a strategic partnership with AltiSky.
As part of the signed memorandum of understanding (MOU), AltiSky is set to build a 30,000 ft.² Cassio aircraft assembly facility, delivery center and training complex. The agreement also establishes AltiSky as an official VoltAero partner, responsible for enabling assembly, sales, crew training and support.
According to VoltAero, AltiSky was selected due in part to its previous success as the first U.S. stocking dealer and service center for Tecnam Aircraft. Furthermore, AltiSky President and Co-Founder Bill Minkoff leads the company as co-founder of the Advanced Air Mobility consultancy company and served as vice president of the Advanced Air Mobility Association.
“Bill Minkoff’s aviation knowledge, along with his extensive business network and proven track record in aircraft sales, provide a partner that will position Cassio as a benchmark in North American regional air mobility,” VoltAero CEO Jean Botti says.
The MOU also enables AltiSky to establish a regional maintenance support facility network in its area of responsibility.
“After looking at many of the all-electric airplanes currently under development—including eVTOLs—I’m convinced that VoltAero’s approach is truly realistic, bringing Cassio’s configuration as a conventional takeoff and landing aircraft together with the company’s proprietary electric-hybrid propulsion system,” Minkoff said. “Cassio uses battery technology and power output levels available today, backed by the safety of VoltAero’s dual-source electric-hybrid powertrain. Additionally, its operation from airports reduces risks that eVTOLs face in terms of urban acceptance and the need for significant infrastructure development.”
The partnership was announced during Air Expo Abu Dhabi and follows VoltAero’s recent opening of its primary Cassio final assembly facility and headquarters at Rochefort Airport in France.
According to VoltAero, the company’s first production aircraft version will be the Cassio 330 — a 5-seat electric-hybrid aircraft with a maximum range of over 600 nm. VoltAero will then follow with its 6-seat Cassio 480 and 12-seat Cassio 600. Each aircraft will come equipped with a Safran ENGINeUS electric motor for all-electric power during taxi, takeoff and landing. The hybrid element is fulfilled by an internal combustion engine from Kawasaki Motors, extending the aircraft’s range and recharging battery power during flight.
VoltAero’s Cassio 330 is currently being shown at the company’s exhibit at Air Expo Abu Dhabi in the ADNEC Center.
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