UrbanLink Air Mobility, the South Florida-based company planning a range of advanced air mobility (AAM) and zero-emission aviation projects across the US, has announced that it has placed an order with Eviation Aircraft for up to 20 of the manufacturer’s Alice commuter airplanes. The order sees UrbanLink commit to taking 10 aircraft initially, with options for a further 10 aircraft.
The order for the Alice, a nine-seat zero-emission commuterliner, will provide UrbanLink with the capability to operate eco-friendly commute flights on route lengths of up to 250 nautical miles (463km) nonstop.
Based in Washington State in the US, Eviation Aircraft develops and manufactures electric aircraft to provide operators and passengers with “green, cost-efficient, and convenient regional transportation.” According to an UrbanLink statement, the addition of Eviation’s Alice aircraft “marks a significant milestone in the company’s commitment to sustainability and innovation, positioning the company at the forefront of zero-emission regional air travel.”
Operating out of its hub cities of Miami, Los Angeles, and San Juan (Puerto Rico), UrbanLink will deploy its Alice aircraft on various regional routes as part of its wider commitment to provide greener urban mobility aviation solutions.
“Our order for ten Eviation Alice aircraft completes the third leg of our all-electric operating plan, giving us the ability to offer 9-seat, zero-emission flights across our network,” said Ed Wegel, UrbanLink’s Founder and Chairman. “Together with our regional eVTOL aircraft and electric sea vessels, we will provide seamless, sustainable travel options across the regions we serve, setting the stage for a fully integrated, eco-friendly travel experience.”
“We are thrilled to partner with UrbanLink in revolutionizing regional air mobility,” said Andre Stein, CEO of Eviation. “This partnership with UrbanLink to operate our Alice aircraft marks a significant milestone in our shared vision of creating a sustainable and efficient transportation network. Alice’s zero-emissions technology and unmatched passenger experience will enable UrbanLink to offer unparalleled service while contributing to a greener future.”
The Alice has already racked up a sizeable order book, with more than 600 orders placed worth over $5 billion, says the company. Previous customers placing orders for the aircraft include Air New Zealand, Cape Air, DHL, V-Bird, and GlobalX. The Alice had its first flight in September 2022.
The order from UrbanLink quickly follows on from the company’s recent order for 27 all-electric Viceroy seagliders from REGENT Craft to operate on regional networks in South Florida and Puerto Rico from 2027. That aircraft can carry up to 12 passengers and travel at up to 180mph (290 kph) over service routes up to 180 miles (288 km) in length on a single charge.