Call for an instant quote 0345 90 80 161
Open Mon to Fri 08:30 - 19:00 | Sat 09:00 - 16:00 (GMT)
31 October 2018 08:22
The silhouette of a passenger plane flying in sunset.
Electric planes could soon be flying on short-haul routes in Europe, according to the boss of EasyJet.
The carrier's chief executive Johan Lundgren said the airline is "moving fast" in developing electric planes and that he can foresee a future that is "not exclusively dependant on jet fuel."
In partnership with US-based manufacturer Wright Electric, the Luton-based carrier is looking to develop battery-propelled aircraft for flights of less than two hours by 2027.
Wright Electric, which already has a two-seater electric plane and plans to be flying nine-seater next year, has applied for a patent on a motor for an electric airliner.
All-electric
EasyJet believes the progress means an all-electric commercial passenger jet capable of flying passengers across its European network is "in sight".
London-Amsterdam has a strong demand for day return trips and could be "an ideal route" for the technology to be used.
Mr Lundgren said: "Looking forward, the technological advancements in electric flying are truly exciting and it is moving fast.
"From the two-seater aircraft, which is already flying, to the nine-seater which will fly next year, electric flying is becoming a reality and we can now foresee a future that is not exclusively dependent on jet fuel."
Quieter and cheaper
Wright Electric predicts electric planes will be up to 50% quieter and 10% cheaper for airlines to buy and operate, compared with traditional aircraft.
The company is focused on improving batteries and making the aircraft frame as efficient as possible for use with electric motors.
Conventional short-haul aircraft have one large jet engine underneath each wing, but electric planes would have several smaller motors.
Its chief executive Jeffrey Engler said: "We are excited about what the next year holds. EasyJet has been a fantastic partner and we look forward to helping introduce low-emissions, low-noise aviation, to Europe."
If you're planning on going on any short-haul breaks, check out our dedicated city breaks travel insurance and get the right cover for you.
02 September 2019
If you're visiting the Land of the Rising Sun for the rugby, here's everything you need to know about the World Cup's host cities...
[more...]
Not ready to wave goodbye to summer? Discover our top European destinations for last-minute summer sun...
Already stressing about that 8-hour flight? Make your journey more comfortable with our top tips for flying long-haul.
Heading on holiday to Japan? Get the most out of your trip to Tokyo with these must-see places in the Japanese capital.
Are you going on holiday to Japan? Get the most out of your trip by discovering these alternative, off-the-beaten-track destinations that will show you a different side to the Land of the Rising Sun.
21 August 2019
Travelling to Japan to watch the rugby? Here's everything you need to know about visiting the land of the rising sun, from payment methods to convenience store drinking!
Ready to experience the drama of rugby's greatest competition? Here's our guide to getting close to the action with a trip to magical Japan.
08 August 2019
Looking to travel back in time? Walk in the footsteps of Zeus and Apollo as you explore some of Greece's most iconic historical sites.
Want to explore off the beaten track? Discover your new Grecian paradise in one of these secluded island locations...
Find your favourite Greek food with our guide on how to let your taste buds explore the delicious flavours of Greece.
Ever wondered what life was like in Ancient Greece? Explore the city that many call the birthplace of Western civilisation by visiting these fantastic attractions in the legendary city of Athens.
Which Greek Island should I visit? A common question if you want to experience the beauty of Greece's many islands. Find the answer in our quick guide to ten of the best.