Unknown

The Unknown, developed by the Czech‑based manufacturer Aura Aero, entered the market in 2022 as the company’s first all‑electric, short‑range commuter aircraft. Conceived in response to growing demand for ultra‑quiet, low‑emission regional transport, the project began in 2018 under the code name “E‑1”. After an intensive testing program that included over 300 flight hours on the company’s own testbed, the prototype achieved certification from the European Union Aviation Safety Agency in early 2022, making it one of the first fully certified electric planes for commercial service.

Key features include a high‑efficiency 400‑kilowatt lithium‑polymer battery pack, a lightweight carbon‑fiber airframe, and a twin‑propeller configuration that delivers a cruise speed of 300 km/h with a range of 150 km. The cabin accommodates six passengers plus a pilot, with a flat‑floor layout and panoramic windows that enhance passenger comfort. Advanced avionics integrate real‑time energy management, allowing pilots to optimize flight paths for maximum efficiency.

The Unknown’s significance lies in its demonstration that electric propulsion can meet the rigorous demands of scheduled airline operations. By reducing operating costs by up to 30 % and eliminating local emissions, it sets a benchmark for the next generation of sustainable regional aviation.