Deepinder Goyal says his company's first electric aircraft is ready
What's the story
Deepinder Goyal-backed aviation start-up LAT Aerospace has unveiled a full-scale technology demonstrator of its innovative electric aircraft. The vehicle's design is optimized for the short take-off and landing (STOL) operations, marking a major step in sustainable regional mobility. The company plans to further refine the aircraft's propulsion and aerodynamic performance.
Connectivity focus
Connecting Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities
The new aircraft from LAT Aerospace is specifically designed to connect India's Tier-2 and Tier-3 cities. The design exploits the capability of taking off and landing on short, semi-prepared runways. This could do away with reliance on major airports, making point-to-point air travel between smaller towns possible. The company's vision is to create low-cost regional air connectivity across underserved routes with this innovative aircraft.
Propulsion
Hybrid propulsion for reduced emissions
LAT Aerospace's aircraft features a hybrid propulsion architecture. It combines multiple electric propulsors powered by a turbo-generator and high-capacity battery packs. This configuration promises greater range and reliability than the purely electric aircraft while significantly reducing emissions and operating costs. The propulsion layout is designed to improve redundancy and enable steep, efficient climbs suitable for short-field operations.
Tech validation
In-house development of airframe and propulsion systems
The engineering team at LAT Aerospace is focused on validating core technologies such as the hybrid powertrain, lightweight structural materials, and aerodynamic control systems. The firm's R&D facility in Gurugram is building both the airframe and propulsion systems from scratch.
Capabilities
A look at the aircraft's prowess
The technology demonstrator is designed to takeoff in 40 meters, and has an endurance of 60 minutes. It can autonomously cruise the distance from Mumbai to Pune. The initial version of LAT Aerospace's aircraft will seat eight passengers for short-haul routes under 500km. However, the company is also working on a stretched variant that can accommodate 12 to 24 passengers.