Mesa Airlines makes conditional pre-order for 100 TriFan 600 aircraft
Mesa Airlines makes conditional pre-order for 100 TriFan 600 aircraft Mesa Air Group, the parent company of US regional airline, has made a conditional purchase order with XTI Aircraft Company for up to 100 TriFan 600 aircraft. The TriFan, a fixed-wing, vertical life crossover airplane currently in development, is designed as an alternative to existing regional passenger aircraft and combines the design of a business jet and a helicopter. The aircraft's ability to use helipads and non-traditional landing areas significantly increases its usability and sets it apart from other aircraft in the market. Mesa has also been disclosed as an investor in XTI Aerospace, with a minority stake in common stock shares.
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Mesa Air Group, the parent company of US regional airline, Mesa Airlines, has made a purchase order with XTI Aircraft Company for up to 100 TriFan 600 aircraft.
The TriFan 600 is a fixed-wing, vertical life crossover airplane (VCLA) which is currently in development. Mesa has also been disclosed as an investor in XTI Aerospace, with a minority stake in common stock shares.
Jonathan Ornstein, chairman and chief executive officer of Mesa Air Group, said he was “excited about the potential of the TriFan”, adding that: “I think of the TriFan as the legendary King Air reimagined. The TriFan 600’s ability to utilize helipads and non-traditional landing areas as well as traditional airports would considerably expand its usability and set it apart from other aircraft in the market.”
The TriFan is marketed as an alternative to existing regional passenger aircraft, carrying up to six passengers and combining the design of a business jet and a helicopter, with front fans that transition up to lift the aircraft vertically, and then transition forward. Its design means is can operate using current infrastructure, ideal for the small and rural communities Mesa Airlines serves in the United States.
It would be capable of vertical takeoff, conventional runway takeoff, and short runway takeoff. It is expected to have a range of 700 miles – seven times the range of most battery-operated VTOL aircraft in development.
Its two turboshaft engines will first be powered by 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), with hybrid-electric and all-electric propulsion technologies to be developed as regulatory guidance is formulated and technologies mature.
“Our position in XTIA enhances our commitment to the next wave of innovation in the regional aviation industry. We look forward to providing the XTI Aerospace team with our understanding of regional and local air markets and knowledge of commercial aviation dynamics,” Ornstein added.
Scott Pomeroy, chairman and chief executive officer of XTI Aerospace commented: “We are excited to have secured this conditional pre-order and position from Mesa Airlines and believe it serves as further validation of the substantial and untapped market for our aircraft. With a maximum speed of 345 mph and a range of 700 miles, we believe the TriFan 600 will be an ideal alternative to existing aircraft for regional passengers.”
Themen: Aviation, Airlines