United buying electric planes that could serve McCook route
DENVER — United Airlines may buy 100 electric aircraft that would be useful for routes such as flying from Denver to McCook, Neb.
CBS4 of Denver reported that the airline is working with electric aircraft startup Heart Aerospace to develop the ES-19, a 19-seat electric aircraft capable of flying up to 250 miles using only electric motors and batteries.
“Once in operation, the aircraft could operate 20 to 30 routes departing from Denver to destinations such as McCook, Nebraska,” the television station reported.
United Airlines has conditionally agreed to purchase 100 of the electric aircraft, once they meet safety, business and operating requirements.
United hopes to have the aircraft flying passengers before the end of this decade.
The deal is in collaboration with Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy ventures.