EcoPulse, the collaborative hybrid-electric aircraft project by Daher, Safran, and Airbus, achieved its inaugural flight on November 29. The converted Daher TBM 910 took off from Tarbes Airport in France for a 100-minute sortie, deploying all components of the powertrain. Safran provided the integrated motor/thruster units and turbogenerator, while Airbus developed the high-energy-density battery pack. The flight tests aim to validate ground test results and assess the operational benefits of hybrid-electric distributed propulsion for reduced emissions and noise. The program, supported by various entities, contributes to the industry's efforts to decarbonize aviation.
