Aircraft
Leasing Groups Tap Airline Interest in Electric Aircraft
Japan Airlines could take up to 100 of Vertical Aerospace's eVTOL aircraft, and Amedeo has committed to Aura Aero's 19-seat hybrid-electric commuter.
Aura Aero is developing a 19-seat hybrid electric regional airliner. (Image: Aura Aero)
Aura Aero is developing a 19-seat hybrid electric regional airliner. (Image: Aura Aero)

Two aircraft leasing deals announced this week reflect the sector’s growing interest in electric aviation. Japan Airlines (JAL) on Wednesday agreed to lease or purchase up to 100 of Vertical Aerospace’s VA-X4 eVTOL aircraft from leasing group Avolon. Word of the deal came less than 24 hours after Amedeo has agreed to buy 200 of the 19-seat, hybrid-electric aircraft being developed by Toulouse, France-based start-up Aura Aero.