Safran onboard Flying Whales’ LCA60T airship!
Safran has just delivered to Flying Whales the first prototype of the power transmission system contributing to the propulsion of the LCA60T (Large Capacity Airship 60 Tons). This marks a new key milestone in the Group’s collaboration with the startup, which also includes systems for power generation, distribution, and conversion.
A technological breakthrough for hybrid aviation
As part of a partnership agreement signed in 2023, Safran Transmission Systems teams recently delivered the first prototype of the power transmission system for the turbogenerators that will equip the LCA60T airship.
This milestone highlights the excellent work and innovation capacity of the teams, as it is the first time the Group has developed power transmission systems for this type of propulsion system. The development of this system is fully aligned with Safran’s innovation strategy in support of aviation decarbonization.
Additionally, an agreement was signed in 2021 between the startup and Safran Electrical & Power for the production of power generation, distribution, and conversion systems.
Spotlight on the LCA60T
The contract signed with Flying Whales covers the development and supply of the power transmission systems for the four turbogenerators on each airship.
Measuring 200 meters in length, the LCA60T will be able to load and unload up to 60 tons of cargo while hovering — a world first! Designed for markets such as timber harvesting, freight, and exceptional transport, it will offer a pioneering solution to global needs for transporting heavy or oversized loads, enabling point-to-point routes with low operating costs and reduced environmental impact.
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