This article is based on an official press release from Safran Group.

Safran Leads OSYRYS Consortium to Power Next-Gen Regional Aircraft

The aviation industry has taken a significant step toward decarbonization with the official launch of OSYRYS, a major research project under the European Union’s Clean Aviation initiative. From January 20 to 22, 2026, consortium partners gathered for joint kick-off meetings to initiate a five-year collaboration aimed at developing the next generation of Ultra-Efficient Regional Aircraft (UERA).

Led by Safran Electrical & Power, the OSYRYS project (On-board SYstems Relevant for hYbridization of Regional aircraftS) brings together 24 partners to address one of the most critical challenges in modern aviation, managing the high-voltage electrical architecture required for hybrid-electric propulsion. The project is part of a broader coordinated effort involving three other consortia,HERACLES, DEMETRA, and PHARES,working in unison to mature technologies for an aircraft targeted to enter service by 2035.

OSYRYS: The Electrical Backbone of Future Flight

As the aviation sector moves toward hybridization, the demand for onboard electrical power is set to increase dramatically. The OSYRYS consortium focuses specifically on the secondary power distribution and management systems necessary to support these new architectures. According to Safran Group, the project aims to mature technologies that will enable significant reductions in fuel burn and emissions.

The transition to hybrid-electric flight requires more than just new engines; it demands a complete rethink of how electricity is generated, distributed, and managed throughout the airframe. OSYRYS will develop and validate these “more-electric” systems, ensuring they can handle the higher loads and voltage requirements of future regional aircraft while maintaining strict safety and weight standards.

“From 20 to 22 January 2026, HERACLES, DEMETRA, PHARES, and OSYRYS consortia met for joint kick-off meetings, marking the official launch of a five-year collaboration to build the next generation of Ultra-Efficient Regional Aircraft within the Clean Aviation initiative.”

, Safran Group Press Release

A Four-Pillar Strategy for Decarbonization

OSYRYS does not operate in isolation. It is one of four interlinked projects selected under Clean Aviation’s third Call for Proposals, which collectively received €140 million in EU funding alongside more than €200 million in in-kind contributions from industry partners. Each project addresses a specific aspect of the UERA concept:

• OSYRYS: Focuses on onboard systems and electrical hybridization (Led by Safran Electrical & Power).
• HERACLES: Defines the integrated aircraft concept and design (Led by ATR).
• PHARES: Develops the hybrid-electric propulsion system, including a derivative of the PW127XT engine (Led by Pratt & Whitney Canada).
• DEMETRA: Responsible for the Flight Test Demonstrator to validate these technologies in real-world conditions (Led by ATR).

The overarching goal of this collaboration is to achieve a reduction in CO2 emissions of at least 30% compared to state-of-the-art regional aircraft from 2020. By coordinating their efforts, the consortia aim to reach Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 6,demonstration in a relevant environment,by the end of the decade.

AirPro News analysis

The launch of OSYRYS highlights a strategic consensus in the aerospace industry: regional aviation will likely be the first segment to adopt hybrid-electric propulsion at scale. While long-haul flights remain dependent on liquid fuels (SAF), the power requirements for regional aircraft are within the reach of current and near-future hybrid architectures.

Safran’s leadership in OSYRYS reinforces its position as a critical systems integrator. By controlling the electrical “nervous system” of the aircraft, Safran is securing its role in a market where power management will be just as important as thrust generation. The coordination with ATR and Pratt & Whitney Canada also suggests a move away from siloed R&D toward an ecosystem approach, which is essential for meeting the aggressive 2035 entry-into-service target.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the main goal of the OSYRYS project?
OSYRYS aims to develop and mature the onboard electrical systems required for hybrid-electric regional aircraft, focusing on power distribution and management.

When will the new aircraft enter service?
The technologies developed under these projects are intended for a next-generation regional aircraft targeted for entry into service by 2035.

Who are the key partners involved?
The initiative involves major industry players including Safran Electrical & Power, ATR, and Pratt & Whitney Canada, along with dozens of other partners across the four consortia.

Sources

• Safran Group
• Clean Aviation

Air New Zealand and BETA Technologies Conclude Electric Demonstrator Program with 82% Energy Cost Reduction

This article is based on an official press release from Air New Zealand and BETA Technologies.

Air New Zealand and U.S.-based aerospace company BETA Technologies have officially concluded their four-month “Mission Next Gen Aircraft” technical demonstrator program. The initiative, which utilized the all-electric ALIA CX300 aircraft, was designed to validate the operational feasibility of Electric-Aviation within New Zealand’s unique topography and regulatory environment. According to data released by the companies, the trial successfully demonstrated that electric propulsion can deliver significant economic advantages, specifically highlighting an approximate 82% reduction in direct energy costs compared to conventional aviation fuel on key regional routes.

The program, which wrapped up in mid-February 2026, marks a significant shift from theoretical modeling to real-world operational data. Over the course of the trial, the ALIA CX300 (registered as N401NZ) was flown by a mixed crew of Air New Zealand and BETA Technologies pilots, gathering critical performance data that will inform the airline’s future fleet decisions and the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of New Zealand’s regulatory framework.

Operational Milestones and Data

The demonstrator program was extensive in scope, moving beyond simple test hops to simulate genuine logistics operations. According to the official announcement, the aircraft completed over 100 flights and covered approximately 13,000 kilometers (7,000 nautical miles) across the country. The aircraft visited 12 different Airports and aerodromes on both the North and South Islands, proving its ability to integrate into existing aviation infrastructure.

Performance Statistics

Data provided by Air New Zealand highlights the reliability of the platform during the trial period:

• Total Cargo Transported: Over 20 tonnes of mock cargo.
• Range Demonstrated: While operational legs averaged around 150 km, the aircraft demonstrated a range of approximately 336 nautical miles (620 km) during testing.
• Turnaround Times: The aircraft utilized rapid charging capabilities, achieving full charges in 40 to 60 minutes.

One of the most significant achievements cited in the release was the successful completion of New Zealand’s first low-emissions Instrument Flight Rules (IFR) flight in December. This milestone is critical for commercial viability, as IFR capability ensures aircraft can operate reliably in New Zealand’s variable weather conditions, rather than being restricted to clear-weather visual flight rules.

Economic Viability: The Cost of Electric Flight

A central goal of the “Mission Next Gen” program was to determine the economic reality of replacing turboprop engines with electric powertrains. The results released by the airline offer a stark comparison between the ALIA CX300 and the Cessna Caravan, a standard workhorse for regional cargo.

On the strategic route between Wellington (WLG) and Blenheim (BHE), a critical connection across the Cook Strait, the cost differential was substantial. Air New Zealand reported the following energy costs for the sector:

“Electric Energy Cost (ALIA): ~$20 NZD.
Conventional Fuel Cost (Cessna Caravan): ~$110 NZD.”

This data suggests that energy costs for the electric aircraft were approximately 18% of the cost of conventional aviation fuel for the same journey. While maintenance and battery replacement costs will eventually factor into the total cost of ownership, the direct operating cost reduction presents a compelling case for the electrification of short-haul regional routes.

Regulatory Collaboration and Future Plans

The trial was conducted in close partnership with the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of New Zealand to help build a Certification pathway for next-generation aircraft. The data gathered regarding battery performance, pilot training requirements, and ground handling is intended to accelerate the development of safety regulations for electric aviation.

In a statement regarding the program’s conclusion, CAA leadership emphasized the importance of the trial in “facilitating a clear pathway” for emerging technologies. The collaboration ensures that when commercial fleets arrive, the regulatory framework will be ready to support them.

Commercial Cargo Launch in 2026

With the demonstrator aircraft N401NZ now returning to BETA Technologies, Air New Zealand is shifting focus to commercial implementation. The airline has confirmed plans to launch commercial Cargo-Aircraft-only flights in partnership with New Zealand Post in 2026. These operations will utilize the certified version of the ALIA aircraft, pending final regulatory approval.

AirPro News Analysis

The completion of this program distinguishes Air New Zealand from many global peers who remain in the “order book” phase of electric aviation. By logging 13,000 kilometers in a real-world airline environment, rather than a controlled test facility, the airline has moved the industry conversation from “will it fly?” to “how much will it save?”

The 82% reduction in energy costs is a headline figure that will likely accelerate interest from other regional operators. However, the focus on cargo-first operations remains a prudent strategy. Cargo boxes do not complain about range anxiety or charging delays, allowing operators to refine the logistics of electric aviation before introducing passengers. The successful IFR flight is arguably the most important technical win here; without the ability to fly in clouds and poor visibility, electric aircraft would remain hobbyist toys. Air New Zealand has proven they can be reliable tools of trade.

Sources

Sources: Centre for Aviation (CAPA) / Air New Zealand Press Release

This article is based on an official press release and research report from the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA).

AIAA Report: The 10 Technologies Defining Aerospace in 2026

On February 18, 2026, the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA), in partnership with analytics firm BryceTech, released its landmark report, “Technologies Transforming Aerospace.” Drawing on a survey of over 700 industry experts and interviews with senior technology leaders, the report declares that the global aerospace sector has reached a critical “technological inflection point.”

According to the release, the industry is witnessing a convergence of advanced computing, novel propulsion, and next-generation materials. This shift is driving a transition from theoretical feasibility to industrial scalability. AIAA CEO Clay Mowry highlighted the urgency of this moment in the organization’s announcement.

“The signal is clear: the next aerospace era is here. The technologies highlighted in this report will permeate the aerospace supply chain over the next 20 years.”

— Clay Mowry, AIAA CEO

The report identifies ten specific technologies that experts believe will dominate the landscape between now and 2045. Below, we break down these key areas based on the AIAA’s findings for 2026.

The Revolution in Aviation and Defense

A significant portion of the report focuses on the rapid evolution of atmospheric flight, driven by decarbonization mandates and defense requirements.

Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and Electrification

The pressure to decarbonize remains the primary driver for commercial aviation. The AIAA report notes that Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) are the leading near-term solution. Production has seen a “robust increase” in 2026, with new facilities like LanzaJet’s Freedom Pines broadening the feedstock base to include ethanol-to-jet technologies.

Specific milestones cited in the report include:

• London Heathrow’s Target: The airport has announced a goal to increase SAF to 5.6% of its total fuel mix in 2026, exceeding UK government mandates.
• Electric Commercialization: 2026 marks the start of commercial operations for electric aviation pioneers. Companies such as Heart Aerospace and Wright Electric are pushing for entry into service, while eVTOL manufacturers like Joby and Archer are finalizing certification for air taxi services in major urban centers.

Hypersonics and Autonomous Systems

In the defense and logistics sectors, speed and autonomy are paramount. The report highlights that hypersonic propulsion has moved from testing to prototype fielding. Notable developments include the scheduled February 2026 flight of Hypersonix’s DART AE scramjet vehicle and GE Aerospace’s demonstration of Rotating Detonation Combustion (RDC) engines.

Simultaneously, autonomy is scaling up. Lockheed Martin’s “Autonomous U-Hawk”, an unmanned Blackhawk helicopter, is undergoing operational tests this year. In the logistics sector, new entrants like Grid Aero are redefining air cargo with heavy-lift unmanned systems.

The Expanding Space Economy

The AIAA report outlines a shift in the space domain from exploration to industrialization, underpinned by reusable launch systems and in-space manufacturing.

Fully Reusable Launch Vehicles

Reducing launch costs is essential for the space economy’s growth. The industry is currently transitioning from partially reusable rockets to fully reusable systems. The report points to SpaceX’s Starship, targeting its operational debut in 2026, as a key driver. Competitors such as Blue Origin (New Glenn) and Rocket Lab (Neutron) are also active, creating a competitive market that could drive launch costs below $100 per kilogram.

In-Space Manufacturing

Manufacturing in microgravity is no longer just a scientific experiment; it is a burgeoning market estimated to reach $1.5 billion in 2026. Companies like Redwire Space and Varda Space Industries are launching dedicated modules to produce high-value goods, including ZBLAN optical fibers and high-purity semiconductors, which benefit from the zero-gravity environment.

Space Nuclear Power

While nuclear power remains critical for deep space exploration, the sector faces near-term challenges. The report notes the effective cancellation of the DRACO nuclear thermal rocket program in the 2026 budget request. However, experts still rank nuclear propulsion in the top 10, citing it as the only viable physics-based solution for rapid human transit to Mars.

Cross-Cutting Technologies

Several technologies identified in the report act as foundational enablers across both aviation and space sectors.

AI and Digital Engineering

Artificial Intelligence has become an “active participant” in the engineering lifecycle. According to the report, over 50% of aerospace firms have fully integrated AI tools into their development processes. The “Digital Thread” concept now allows AI to manage data continuity from design to maintenance, enabling generative designs that human engineers might not conceive.

High-Temperature Materials

To support hypersonic flight and more efficient jet engines, the industry is relying on Ceramic Matrix Composites (CMCs) and advanced superalloys. Recent breakthroughs highlighted at the 2026 Global Conference on Materials Science and Advanced Manufacturing include coatings capable of protecting engines at temperatures exceeding 2,000°F.

AirPro News Analysis

The AIAA’s 2026 report underscores a critical theme: the ruthless prioritization of scalability over novelty. The cancellation of the DRACO nuclear propulsion program, juxtaposed with the surging investment in commercial SAF and reusable launch vehicles, suggests that 2026 is a year where economic viability is the ultimate filter.

While government-backed science projects face budgetary scrutiny, technologies with a clear path to commercial revenue, such as air taxis and satellite manufacturing, are accelerating. For industry stakeholders, the message is that “working prototypes” are no longer enough; the market now demands systems that can be mass-produced and operated profitably.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the primary focus of the 2026 AIAA report?

The report identifies the top 10 technologies transforming aerospace, emphasizing a shift from theoretical feasibility to industrial scalability and mass adoption.

Which technologies were left out of the top 10?

Technologies that “just missed the cut” include collaborative autonomous systems (swarm intelligence), direct-to-device satellite communications, and large-scale additive manufacturing of entire airframes.

What is the status of nuclear propulsion in 2026?

Despite being ranked in the top 10 for its long-term importance for Mars missions, the sector faced a setback with the cancellation of the DRACO program in the 2026 budget request.

Sources: AIAA “Technologies Transforming Aerospace” Report