Swiss startup to transform electric aviation in the Asia Pacific region

Based in Selzach (Canton Solothurn), Smartflyer is working on its flagship 4-seater aircraft, SF1, engineered for fully electric passenger and cargo missions. It features range-extending options comprising a combustion engine with a generator that produces electricity during the flight. This allows for distances of up to 800 kilometers or four hours of flight time. The aircraft's innovative design includes interchangeable energy modules in the nose that facilitate quick connections, that is in less than 15 minutes, to hybrid sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) range extensions and even hydrogen fuel cell variants. The SF1, one of the first aircraft in the world designed to leverage the advantages of electric motors, aims to redefine private aviation by offering low-noise flights and reduced carbon emissions.

The startup has entered a partnership with FlyOnE Sustainable Aviation, a prominent player in the electric aviation sector in the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The companies have signed a letter of intent for the purchase of 30 SF1 aircraft, marking a significant step towards the advancement of sustainable aviation in Australia and beyond. SF1’S capabilities cater to Australia’s unique geographical challenges, enabling access to remote areas where charging infrastructure may be limited.

The purchased Smartflyer SF1 aircraft will be used for both commercial and private flights, integrating to FlyOnE's current Australian operations and servicing growing international segments of the business in the broader APAC region.

Smartflyer CEO, Rolf Stuber, "We are excited to partner with FlyOnE, a company that shares our vision for a more sustainable aviation industry. This collaboration will not only benefit our two companies but also contribute to the global efforts towards reducing carbon emissions and promoting sustainable travel."

FlyOnE has established itself as a leader in the electric aviation market, having conducted over 1,700 electric passenger movements and completed 1,000 flights with its growing fleet. The company is also developing a network of electric aircraft charging stations across Australia, with five active sites and plans for over 40 additional locations. This infrastructure aims to integrate renewable energy capture and storage to meet the rising demand for electric aviation services.

“The Smartflyer aircraft is uniquely suited to address Australia's geographical aviation challenges, while still offering the lowest impact energy sources for our sustainable future. We're excited to bring this amazing aircraft to the APAC region to shape the future of air transport and aviation solutions for the growing low-altitude economy”, commented Korum Ellis, CEO and founder of FlyOnE.

This announcement comes after the completion of FlyOnE's first retail investment offer via CSF platform Birchal, where the company raised significant retail investments at the share price of $3.00, giving the company a market capitalization of AUD$57 million.

(Press release)
Image: Smartflyer electric passenger plane flying over Rottnest Island in Western Australia