Maeve Aerospace M80

The Maeve Aerospace M80, introduced in 2015 by the Irish‑based manufacturer Maeve Aerospace, quickly became a benchmark in the light‑transport segment. Developed from the earlier M50 prototype, the M80 incorporated a carbon‑fiber composite airframe and a next‑generation turboprop engine supplied by Pratt & Whitney Canada, delivering 850 shaft horsepower. Its first flight on 12 March 2015 demonstrated a best‑in‑class cruise speed of 460 knots and a range of 2,200 nautical miles, allowing nonstop trans‑Atlantic routes for a 12‑passenger cabin. Innovative features include a fly‑by‑wire flight‑control system, an integrated health‑monitoring suite that streams diagnostic data to ground stations, and a fully digital cockpit with dual large‑format displays. The aircraft’s low fuel burn—approximately 0.45 lb per seat‑nautical‑mile—set new efficiency standards and attracted regional airlines seeking to reduce operating costs while meeting stricter emissions regulations.

The M80’s significance lies in its role as a bridge between traditional turboprops and emerging electric‑assisted designs. Its success prompted several airlines to replace older fleets, and its composite technology informed the development of Maeve’s later M120 hybrid model, solidifying Maeve Aerospace as a pioneer in sustainable aviation.

Maeve Aerospace

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