Heart Aerospace has unveiled a redesigned 36-seat ES-36 hybrid-electric regional aircraft and secured a deposit-backed commitment from JSX for 50 aircraft, plus purchase rights for another 50. The announcement replaces Heart’s earlier ES-30 programme with a larger model intended for regional operations, as the Los Angeles-based company pushes towards production and certification.
The ES-36 adds six seats and 20% more payload than the previous design while keeping the same maximum takeoff weight and battery capacity. Heart is building the first pre-production aircraft in Los Angeles and is targeting first flight in the second half of 2028, with entry into service planned for 2031 after Federal Aviation Administration certification. The new configuration uses a series-hybrid architecture with two powertrains, with all-electric range set at 125 miles and hybrid range at 745 miles.
JSX’s commitment converts a 2023 letter of intent into a deposit-backed purchase agreement and secures early delivery positions for the Dallas-based public charter operator. Heart and JSX did not disclose financial terms. Existing airline interest from United Airlines and Air Canada is expected to shift to the ES-36 from the earlier ES-30 design.