Hybrid-electric aircraft will be tested in Estonia

XTI Aircraft Company has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Enterprise Estonia, Estonian Aviation Cluster (EAC) and the Estonian Aviation Academy (EAVA) to recognize Estonia as a Regional Mobility hub for the TriFan 600, the world’s first civilian hybrid-electric long-range vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) airplane.

The organizations intend to collaborate with XTI Aircraft Company to establish a corporate presence in Tallinn, Estonia to directly serve the region.

“We are excited to partner with Enterprise Estonia, the EAC, and the EAVA to serve the needs of the regional air mobility market,” said Robert LaBelle, Chief Executive Officer, XTI Aircraft Company. “Given Estonia’s track record of being at the forefront of technology innovation, we intend to foster this relationship to deliver maximum results for both parties that includes long range mobility utilizing clean aviation technology, while expanding the country’s aerospace centers of excellence,” LaBelle added.

Estonia’s unique location in Europe means it could revolutionize regional connectivity by connecting hundreds of active airports and 100 million people inside a circle of 1,000 km by using advanced air mobility solutions such as the TriFan 600.  Additionally, Estonia intends to become one of Europe’s climate neutral aviation spots with all regional domestic flights becoming net carbon emission-free by 2030.

“The Estonian Investment Agency is very pleased to support advanced technology companies like XTI Aircraft,” said Sigrid Harjo, Member of Enterprise Estonia’s Management Board. “Estonia embraces innovative solutions and wants to be at the forefront of implementing them, so it’s the perfect place for XTI Aircraft to use as a testbed for its innovative planes and as a regional hub in the future.”

“It’s a true honor that aviation pioneer XTI Aircraft has turned its eyes to Estonia with regards to establishing its presence in Europe,” noted Kristo Reinsalu, General Manager of the EAC.  “We are very excited to see how XTI and VTOL technology can bring Estonian connectivity to a whole new level.  Tallinn has enormous potential to become a regional air mobility hub by 2026,” Reinsalu added.

Photo: XTI Aircraft