In a bold stride toward enhancing regional air mobility in China’s metropolitan areas, Manta Aircraft and Shenyang Aviation Industries Group have united to introduce the six-seater ANN Plus hybrid aircraft. This collaboration represents a significant leap in the development and certification of Manta’s hybrid electric vertical and short takeoff and landing (HeV/STOL) technology, marking the Chinese market’s increasing embrace of advanced urban air mobility solutions.
A Hybrid Solution with Extended Range
The ANN Plus aircraft offers a unique hybrid propulsion system, combining four ducted fans for both hovering and cruising modes. This setup enhances range and speed compared to conventional electric vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) models, making the aircraft suitable for diverse operational settings. Capable of a 300 km range in VTOL mode and extending up to 1,000 km in short takeoff and landing (STOL) mode, the ANN Plus is primed for flexible deployments from airports, helipads, and remote locations. Such versatility positions the aircraft as an attractive option in regions with limited infrastructure, such as South and East Asia.
Strategic Partnerships and Efficient Certification Process
Lucas Marchesini, CEO of Manta Aircraft, noted the strategic advantages of launching in China, particularly highlighting the efficiency of the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC) certification process. “The certification process by the Civil Aviation Administration is faster than in Europe,” Marchesini remarked, emphasising the time and cost benefits of China’s comprehensive supply chain for aircraft components. This expedited framework accelerates the aircraft’s time to market, fulfilling China’s pressing need for efficient regional transportation solutions.
Commitment to Innovation and Sustainable Design
The partnership also includes extensive research and development initiatives, with plans to construct two full-scale prototypes and pursue CAAC certification. Supported by Baoding Kaiborui Technologies, the collaboration will encompass manufacturing, maintenance, and marketing support throughout China and South Asia. Notably, Manta Aircraft has prioritized sustainability in the ANN Plus design, employing a conventional canard layout refined through wind tunnel tests and computational fluid dynamics (CFD). The aircraft’s hybrid system allows for in-flight battery recharging, reducing ground support requirements—ideal for long-distance and offshore missions.
Public Showcase at the China Airshow
The ANN Plus will debut at the China Airshow in Zhuhai, running from 12-17 November 2024. The full-scale mock-up will offer a detailed view of the aircraft’s innovative design and capabilities, underscoring its potential as a scalable solution for public and private sectors alike. Marchesini expressed excitement about unveiling the aircraft’s interior for the first time, a testament to the detailed work that has gone into both its aesthetics and functionality.
Aligning with China’s Low Altitude Economy Vision
This collaboration aligns with China’s vision of developing a Low Altitude Economy, fostering an environment conducive to eVTOL and other low-altitude aircraft. As China accelerates regulatory reforms and pilots dedicated low-altitude zones, the ANN Plus stands as a promising entrant in this evolving sector. Marchesini acknowledged China’s proactive approach: “China wants to put in place low-altitude aviation, what they call AAM. They are pushing for it in many provinces and understand that they have to help with the certification to do this. They are faster than the FAA and EASA and take a different approach, they allow the aircraft to be in flight sooner.”
With a focus on speed, sustainability, and regional connectivity, the ANN Plus venture by Manta Aircraft and Shenyang Aviation represents a progressive step toward integrating advanced air mobility within China’s rapidly modernising urban landscape.
