Israel Aerospace Industry (IAI) has begun working on the development of green energy solutions for the future development of electrically powered aircraft, combining environmental benefits together with longer ranges and endurance and with significant fuel cost savings.
The demand for electrically powered aircraft is projected to reach hundreds of aircrafts per year within the next decade, covering a range of sizes and mission profiles. The growing use of electric propulsion is expected to save hundreds of millions of dollars in fuel and maintenance costs. Environmental benefits include significant reduction of air pollution and noise levels. While today’s electrical power is mainly limited to very light aircraft, IAI estimates that as the technology continues to mature, the market will diversify also to short-range passenger airplanes and other configurations.

IAI’s experience in electric power systems for unmanned aerial vehicles spans many years. Some of the products developed by IAI include the Panther and Mini Panther UAVs, vertical takeoff and landing Unmanned Airborne Vehicles as well as the Bird Eye 650 reconnaissance vehicle.
In recent years, IAI has been investing heavily in R&D of electric power systems, including engines, batteries and energy sources. It also monitors closely the developments, integration and demonstration of advanced technologies in this arena. Together with IAI’s in-house developments, it is also considering potential collaborations with a startup company in his most upcoming and challenging field of electrically powered aircraft.

IAI release