X1 prototype, the largest global electric plane, makes successful first flight in the US
Heart Aerospace has confirmed the successful maiden flight of its X1 model, the largest battery-electric aircraft ever recorded. The prototype, which has a wingspan of approximately 32 meters (106 feet), a length of 23 meters (76 feet) and a maximum takeoff weight of more than 11 tons, completed a 27-minute flight on August 12, 2026, departing from Plattsburgh, in the United States, reaching an altitude of 335 meters (1,100 feet).
The operation was carried out with special certification from the FAA (Federal Aviation Administration), which authorized all phases, from taxiing and takeoff to climb, aerial maneuvers and landing. This achievement proves the applicability of electric propulsion in commercial aircraft.
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The X1 model, belonging to Heart Aerospace, remained in the air for 27 minutes over the territory of New York, in the United States.
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According to the company, the aircraft’s energy consumption during the mission was about US$5 worth of electricity.
Throughout the flight, the electric propulsion system generated more than 1 megawatt of power, using about US$5 in electrical energy. This reduced cost is in stark contrast to the global rise in fossil fuels, which has seen a 63% increase in just one year.
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Anders Forslund, founder and CEO of Heart Aerospace, stated that the X1 demonstrates the ability of electric commercial aircraft to transform the economics of the airline industry, making flights cheaper, more regular and environmentally friendly, in addition to enabling connections between airports located closer to urban centers.
The X1 serves as a full-size prototype for the ES-30, a hybrid-electric regional airliner with seating for 30 passengers. The company intends to obtain certification for the ES-30 under FAA regulations. Large airlines such as United Airlines, Air Canada and JSX have already expressed interest in purchasing the project.
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Michael Leskinen, CFO of United Airlines, said the X1 flight constitutes a significant technical advancement that highlights the ability of electric planes to optimize the passenger experience and boost industry profitability.
John Di Bert, an executive at Air Canada, stated that the investment in the ES-30 project reflects the company’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge technologies aimed at the energy transition in aviation.
Expected to begin operations in 2031, the ES-30 is expected to reduce operating expenses by more than 40% compared to conventional regional aircraft. This is due to lower energy costs, less complex maintenance and the greater safety offered by electric propulsion and integrated systems.
Ben Stabler, CTO of Heart, mentioned that the X1 program was fundamental to the full development of a commercial electric aircraft, serving as a foundation for the ES-30 and future electrically powered aircraft platforms.
Assembly of the first ES-30 in the pre-production phase is already underway in Los Angeles, and flight tests are scheduled for 2028.
