In a groundbreaking development for the aviation sector, Hartzell Propeller, an industry leader with over a century of innovation, has received FAA Part 35 type certification for a new electric engine propeller, marking a critical step forward for the electric and hybrid-electric aircraft movement. This is the first certification of its kind, and one with ripple effects that could eventually reach Africa’s skies.
The five-bladed, carbon-fibre, fixed-pitch propeller is tailored specifically for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, hybrids, and other advanced air mobility (AAM) vehicles. Notably designed for quiet, high-performance operations, it’s poised to power the emerging fleets of urban air taxis, cargo drones, and regional aircraft.
Hartzell developed the propeller in close collaboration with Beta Technologies, which plans to deploy it on its CX300 electric aircraft. FAA approval clears the way for real-world commercial testing and use, opening a new chapter in sustainable aviation.
Does This Matter for Africa?
While this milestone is centred in North America, Africa’s aviation future could be shaped significantly by such innovations. The continent, where infrastructure is often patchy and regional connectivity remains a challenge, stands to benefit immensely from decentralised, clean, and cost-effective air mobility solutions.
Experts say electric aviation could revolutionise air travel in Africa by:
- Bypassing poor road infrastructure to connect rural and remote areas
- Reducing dependence on costly aviation fuel, which is often scarce or expensive in African markets
- Lowering noise and emissions, especially crucial in congested or environmentally sensitive zones
Africa doesn’t have to follow the same path as legacy aviation systems. With electric propulsion and eVTOL technology, the continent could leapfrog to a more sustainable and accessible model of air transport.
The Local Implication: Clean Skies, Connected Communities
Several African startups and aviation authorities are already exploring electric aviation. Kenya Airways has partnered with Eve Air Mobility for potential eVTOL routes in Nairobi. In South Africa, CemAir and other carriers are evaluating small electric aircraft for short-haul regional travel.
The certification of the Hartzell electric propeller means more aircraft will soon be eligible for real-world operations. As companies like Beta Technologies expand partnerships with major clients like UPS, Republic Airways, and Bristow Group, there’s a growing expectation that electric aircraft may soon reach global markets, including Africa.
Africa’s first commercial electric aircraft deployment could also find a home in eco-tourism, connecting parks and reserves while preserving quiet and clean environments. In regions such as Botswana’s Okavango Delta or Rwanda’s Volcanoes National Park, low-noise eVTOLs could provide a transformative experience for high-end, sustainable tourism.
Local Regulatory Alignment Will Be a Challenge
One challenge ahead is regulatory alignment. While the FAA and EASA have started issuing electric propulsion certifications, African aviation authorities such as the South African Civil Aviation Authority (SACAA) and Nigeria’s NCAA will need to develop their own frameworks, or adopt and adapt international standards, to clear the way for electric aircraft.
The key is capacity building. The safety and certification knowledge must be shared early to allow local operators to prepare. Beta’s CX300, now one of the first aircraft to be fitted with the certified Hartzell propeller, has already proven its endurance. It flew across 25 U.S. states in various conditions, from scorching heat to snow, demonstrating a robustness that could be ideal for African terrain and climates.
What Comes Next?
While the Hartzell electric propeller is now cleared for takeoff, the work continues. Testing for its tiltrotor and lifter designs is ongoing, and full certification of Beta’s eVTOL platform, Alia, is expected next year.
In the meantime, Africa’s aviation ecosystem has an opportunity: to engage early, pilot innovative programs, and position itself as a testbed for sustainable air mobility in emerging markets.
As one industry insider put it at the Paris Air Show: “The next great leap for aviation isn’t just electric, it’s global.”
