French, private airline, Pan Européenne Air Service (PEAS) placed its first firm order for AURA AERO’s 19‑seat hybrid‑electric ERA aircraft, earlier this month, marking a key step toward decarbonizing regional aviation. The ERA combines eight electric motors (ENGINeUS, developed by Safran and the world’s first certified electric aircraft engine) and two SAF‑compatible turbogenerators, alternating between hybrid and electric modes to cut CO₂ emissions by up to 80% versus conventional aircraft in its class, while offering a 900 NM (1,500 km) range. Crucially, the design is versatile enough for passenger, business‑aviation, special‑mission and light cargo configurations, hinting at future niche‑cargo roles on regional routes where emissions and noise are under scrutiny. Pan Européenne, already a long‑standing regional operator, aims to be among the first carriers to run paying passengers on a hybrid‑electric aircraft, positioning ERA as both a sustainability showcase and a potential template for low‑impact, point‑to‑point air‑cargo feeder networks in Europe and beyond. “To date, the order book for ERA includes nearly 700 Letters of Intent from 16 international airlines and fleet operators, valued at USD 12 billion,” the press release reveals.
Antoine Foessel and Clément Jacquot, co-CEOs and owners of Pan Européenne’ joint statement reads: “AURA AERO’s ambition and values are perfectly aligned with our vision of the aviation of tomorrow. The technological and industrial choices made in the design and production of ERA since the launch of the company have always proved extremely relevant, and it was only natural that we chose this aircraft in order to be able to offer the first decarbonized air transport service in history.” Jérémy Caussade, President and co-founder of AURA AERO, said: “Pan Européenne is much more than a launch customer; it is a trusted partner that has been with us since the beginning of the ERA program. We are very proud to have the commitment of a company that has chosen to support a French manufacturer, because we share the same values and vision.”
