In a major ecotourism initiative, Aviair and HeliSpirit have partnered to launch zero-emission flights to some of Western Australia’s most iconic attractions.
The deal with Eve Air Mobility includes a fleet of up to 50 zero-emission electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft (eVTOL), with flights to start as early as 2026.
“This year marks 20 years of HeliSpirit being eco-accredited as a green travel leader, entering us into the Eco-Tourism Australia Hall of Fame, so this is great timing to commit to significantly reducing our carbon footprint by operating zero-emission electric aircraft,” Michael McConachy, managing director of Aviair and HeliSpirit, said.
The flights will service attractions across the Kimberley, Pilbara, Goldfields and Greater Perth regions.
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The new technology only requires a heliport for departures and landings and boasts up to a 90 percent reduction in noise compared to equivalent helicopter types.
“The low-noise footprint of the aircraft makes them particularly well-suited to operations in sensitive natural settings, including national parks and World Heritage-listed areas, as well as for urban transfers providing quick and efficient solutions for both business and tourism travelers,” Mr. McConachy said.
Eve Air Mobility is part of Embraer, a Brazilian-based aircraft manufacturer of regional aircraft, military, and executive jets.
Eve’s eVTOL aircraft, which can carry up to four passengers, is designed with an overhead wing, hosting distributed rotors and rear propellers, offering the convenience of a helicopter with the speed and comfort of a similar-sized fixed-wing aircraft.
Andre Stein, co-chief executive of Eve, said the initiative was a significant milestone for the company.
“Our partnership opens up an important market in Western Australia that will see our aircraft serving Australia’s iconic tourist attractions with zero-emission and low-noise flights,” he said.
“We share a common vision of a carbon-neutral future for air mobility, supported by Eve’s eVTOL, comprehensive service and support network, and air traffic management solutions.”
WA tourism minister Roger Cook said the partnership highlighted that West Australian tourism businesses were on the “leading edge” of providing the sustainable tourism products that international travelers were increasingly expecting.
Aviair and HeliSpirit said they were keen to investigate urban air transfers between Perth and various locations close to the city, such as Perth Airport, Rottnest Island, and the Swan Valley.
Perth Airport chief executive Kevin Brown said the deal was an exciting and “innovative transport initiative”.
“We look forward to working through the technical and commercial aspects of the concept with Aviair and HeliSpirit,” he said.
Aviair based in Kununurra has a fleet of 30 aircraft mainly turbine-powered aircraft operating a variety of missions while HeliSpirit has 24 helicopters.
