CIAM completes first demonstration flight with superconducting electric aircraft engine

Central Institute of Aviation Motors (CIAM) announced (27-Jul-2021) a Yak-40LL test aircraft completed its first flight with a demonstrator hybrid power plant at the MAKS-2021 air show. CIAM stated the hybrid power plant includes the world's first superconducting electric aircraft engine. The engine features a 500kW superconducting electric motor and a liquid nitrogen cryogenic cooling system. The electric motor is powered by a turboshaft gas turbine generator and a battery pack. The company stated the use of high temperature superconductivity technology is expected to significantly reduce the weight and dimensions of electric engines. [more - original PR - Russian]