France has achieved a significant milestone by unveiling the first fully electric aircraft engine, the ENGIEUS 100, certified by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency. Safran plans to begin large-scale production in 2026, targeting small aircraft and drones with a 125-kilowatt output. This advancement aims to enhance efficiency and sustainability in aviation, addressing environmental concerns as the industry seeks to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, while also exploring hybrid technologies for larger aircraft.
The Milestone of Electric Aviation
In a groundbreaking achievement for the aviation industry, France has unveiled the world’s first fully electric aircraft engine to receive global certification. The Safran group announced on Monday that it has secured approval from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA) to initiate large-scale production of the ENGIEUS 100. This innovative engine is specifically crafted to power small aircraft and civil or military drones.
“We have just experienced a pivotal moment in the history of aviation,” stated Bruno Bellanger, CEO of Safran, during a press conference. “This marks the first instance where an internationally recognized aviation authority has established certification criteria for hybrid or electric propulsion systems intended for aircraft,” he emphasized in Safran’s official statement. The rigorous certification process involved over 1,500 hours of ground testing and more than 100 hours of actual flight trials, spanning a four-year approval journey where the EU’s aviation safety agency delineated airworthiness regulations and standards for this new engine type, which is poised to become a global benchmark.
Production and Future Prospects
The first units of the ENGIEUS 100 are expected to roll off the production line in 2026, delivering an impressive 125 kilowatts of power. While the 100% electric variant targets small aircraft accommodating 2 to 4 passengers, a hybrid version is being developed for regional transport aircraft with a capacity of up to 19 passengers. Moreover, this cutting-edge technology could facilitate the “hybridization” of next-generation airliners catering to 150 passengers or more. Research is also underway to explore fuel cell technology, aiming to provide power for electric engines without relying solely on batteries.
Transport Minister Philippe Tabarot expressed pride in this achievement, stating, “This is a testament to France’s enduring status as a leading aviation nation, thanks to its innovative companies.” With plans to manufacture up to 1,000 engines annually starting in 2026, Safran has announced the establishment of four semi-automated production lines—one located in Niort, Deux-Sèvres, and another in Pitstone, UK. The company has already secured contracts with notable clients, including French firm Aura Aero, American companies Bye Aerospace and Electra, alongside Chinese manufacturers Diamond Aircraft and TCab Tech.
While this accomplishment follows the certification of the Velis Electro, an all-electric two-seater aircraft from Slovak manufacturer Pipistrel in 2020, the ENGIEUS 100’s technology is designed for a broader range of aircraft, subjecting it to more rigorous standards.
The quest for efficiency in air transport has always been paramount—as less fuel consumption translates to higher profitability. However, with mounting environmental pressures, ensuring sustainability has become a pressing challenge. In October, 193 states of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) committed to achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Currently, the aviation industry is responsible for approximately 3% of global CO2 emissions, and the adoption of electric propulsion could significantly reduce this environmental footprint.