Aerospace

Safran signs an agreement with Diamond Aircraft to provide the motor for eDA40 electric aircraft

AERO Friedrichshafen, Germany – April 27, 2022
Safran Electrical & Power, world leader in aircraft electrical systems, and Diamond Aircraft, amongst
the leading aircraft manufacturer in general aviation, have just announced a cooperation agreement
to equip the eDA40 all-electric training aircraft with an ENGINeUSTM electric smart motor.
Safran Electrical & Power will supply the electric motor for the eDA40, a derivative of the existing and certified
DA40 platform, which will be the first EASA/FAA Part 23 certified electric airplane with Direct Current (DC)
fast charging –capable of turning around a depleted aircraft in under 20 minutes. Total flight time is expected
to be up to 90 minutes as the battery technologies evolve. The eDA40 is expected to reduce operating costs
by up to 40% compared to traditional piston aircraft.
The ENGINeUSTM product line includes a broad range of electric motors with power outputs from single digit
to 500 kW. The ENGINeUS TM 100, that will equip the eDA40, delivers 130 kW maximum at take-off power
and features a fully integrated motor controller within the machine. The thermal management is provided by
an optimized air-cooling system. The certification of the electric motor is planned for mid-2023. Basic EASA
certification for the eDA40 is expected with end of 2023/early 2024.
“The DA40 is a proven aircraft, arousing worldwide interest among private pilots and professional flight
training operators. Creating an electric version and participating in the electrification of this best seller aircraft
is not only a technical challenge, but it is also a response to the growing global demand to decarbonize
aviation using electric propulsion. This new contract demonstrates the success of our ENGINeUSTM product
line and confirms the strong interest of the market in our approach to further increase the electric powertrain
performance”, said Thierry Sieg, Vice President of Sales & Marketing at Safran Electrical & Power.
“We are excited to announce the motor partner for the eDA40,” says Liqun (Frank) Zhang, CEO Diamond
Aircraft Industries Austria. “With Safran we are having an expert partner for electric propulsion systems
aboard. The smart motor’s state-of-the-art technology including smart features paired with a well-advanced
certification process is the logic choice for our eDA40. We are looking forward to the first flights scheduled
for end 2022.”

Aerospace

EASA Ends Suspension on PIA, Approves Flights to Europe

Pakistan's National Airline Set for Privatization as Elections Loom

The suspension of Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) from operating in Europe is finally over, marking a significant turning point for Pakistan’s aviation sector.

After years of scrutiny and stringent safety assessments, the European Commission and the European Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) have officially lifted the ban on PIA. This decision also grants Airblue authorization to operate flights to Europe, further enhancing Pakistan’s connectivity with the region.

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PIA’s suspension, initially imposed in June 2020, was a direct consequence of concerns regarding the oversight capabilities of Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA). These concerns were triggered shortly after a tragic PIA plane crash that claimed 97 lives, prompting an investigation into the validity of pilot licenses issued in the country.

Now, after four years of continuous efforts and reforms by the PCAA, EASA has expressed renewed confidence in Pakistan’s aviation regulatory framework. In a statement, EASA highlighted that Pakistan has successfully addressed safety compliance issues, enabling PIA to resume its operations within the European Union.

A spokesperson for PIA expressed optimism, emphasizing the airline’s commitment to strictly adhere to EASA’s regulations and guidelines. “This milestone has been achieved after four years of relentless efforts by the PIA management,” the spokesperson said.

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The lifting of the ban is expected to have a profound impact on PIA’s future. The airline, which employs over 7,000 people, has faced criticism in the past for poor management, financial instability, and regulatory challenges.

However, the restoration of European operations is seen as a vital step toward regaining its competitive edge, improving its financial standing, and restoring its reputation on the global stage.

Pakistan’s government, which has been exploring options to privatize the debt-laden national carrier, is hopeful that this development will attract foreign investment and bolster the country’s aviation industry.

With a renewed focus on compliance and safety, PIA is now poised to rebuild its presence in Europe, offering Pakistani travelers and international passengers more connectivity and improved service.