Cape Air, the Massachusetts-based airline that has a strong presence in the Caribbean, is going electric. 

The company has signed a letter of intent to purchase 75 all-electric Alice commuter aircraft, meaning the longtime regional carrier will become the Caribbean’s first electric airline.

“Truly sustainable aviation not only reduces the impact of air travel on the environment but also makes business sense,” said Jessica Pruss, Vice President of Sales at Eviation. “We are proud to support Cape Air, a recognized leader in regional air travel, to chart a new path in delivering innovative solutions that benefit airline operators, passengers, communities and society.”

With the move, the company says it wants to “set up an unparalleled regional electric fleet, taking a pioneering step into the sustainable era of aviation.”

Cape Air’s Caribbean network includes destinations like St Thomas, Tortola, Virgin Gorda, St Croix, Culebra and Vieques. 

“Cape Air remains committed to sustainability, growth, and innovation, and our partnership with Eviation allows for these commitments to become a reality,” said Cape Air President and CEO Linda Markham. “Our customers will be at the forefront of aviation history and our communities will benefit from emission-free travel.”

The Eviation Alice is the world’s first fully electric aircraft, with a range of up to 440 nautical miles on a single charge – and a top speed of 250 knots. 

“Cape Air has always maintained a deep commitment to social responsibility. As an early supporter of all-electric air travel, we are dedicated to leading the industry towards a sustainable future,” said Cape Air Board Chairman, Dan Wolf. “Together with Eviation, we are creating the next generation of air travel, in which electric flight will be the industry standard.”

The Caribbean’s regional airlines have been leading the way from a sustainability perspective.

Indeed, earlier this year, luxury airline Tradewind Aviation launched the region’s first-ever carbon offset program, covering the cost of 100 percent of the airline’s carbon emissions.

For more, visit Cape Air.