Charles Alcock is managing editor of the AIN Media Group, having rejoined the company in 2019. He has been an aviation journalist since 1986, and previously worked for AIN from 1990 to 2017, most recently as editor-in-chief. His main focus is on covering new aviation technology and business models, as well as international news.
Having been raised in the London area, Alcock studied at the University of Manchester in the UK and earned an honors degree in Politics and Modern History. He speaks English and French, and some German.

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VoltAero has inaugurated the final assembly facility for its Cassio family of hybrid-electric aircraft. The site at Rochefort Airport in the Nouvelle-Aquitaine region of western France also incorporates the start-up’s headquarters.
During an event on November 8, the company said that the 25,839-sq-ft facility will have capacity to produce 150 Cassio aircraft each year. VoltAero also intends to establish local manufacturing sites to serve local markets in other regions of the world.
The <a href="https://www.ainonline.com/aviation-news/futureflight/2024-07-24/sigma-air-mobility-teams-voltaero-dual-fuel-powered-fleet">Cassio family</a>&nbsp;includes three models—the 330, 480, and 600—that would seat between five and 12 passengers. VoltAero is aiming to start flight testing a full-scale technology demonstrator for the Cassio 330 in 2025 as it works towards EASA type certification in 2026.
The Cassio’s powertrain consists of a pair of Safran’s EngineUs electric motors, a turbogenerator, and an aft-mounted pusher propeller. The hybrid-electric range is expected to be up to around 695 nm or 82 nm while operating in all-electric mode.
“We are addressing the highly important market requirement to connect thousands of communities and regions around the world with truly sustainable and efficient advanced regional air mobility, while remaining fully compatible with the airport and air traffic control infrastructure,” said VoltAero’s CEO and chief technology officer, Jean Botti. “Additionally, our patented electric-hybrid propulsion system for Cassio provides the dual-source power to fly safely, and is based on electric battery technology that is available today.”
The new facility has direct access to Rochefort Airport’s 7,478-ft runway. Using a mix of wood and concrete, and incorporating features such as photovoltaic solar panels and rainwater harvesting, the building meets the latest French RT2005 requirements for energy efficiency. The site has space for VoltAero’s partners and suppliers to establish their own facilities.

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VoltAero Opens Assembly Facility for Cassio Hybrid-electric Aircraft

French start-up's new headquarters is located at Rochefort Airport

VoltAero expects to produce 150 of its Cassio family of five- to 12-passenger hybrid-electric aircraft each year at a new factory in the west of France.

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