AURA AERO has returned the former VoltAero Cassio S hybrid-electric demonstrator to flight as X-Volt, using the aircraft as a flying testbed for development of its 19-seat ERA regional aircraft. The flight took place at Rochefort Airport in France, less than three months after AURA AERO acquired VoltAero’s assets.
X-Volt already has extensive hybrid-electric experience, with more than 350 flights recorded before its transfer. AURA AERO is now using that base to speed propulsion testing for ERA, its low-carbon regional aircraft programme.
The aircraft’s return to service follows a period of asset consolidation after the VoltAero purchase, giving AURA AERO an existing demonstrator rather than starting from a clean-sheet test platform. ERA’s first flight has reportedly moved to late 2027, extending the programme’s development timetable.