SAF-compatible Hybrid-Electric Propulsion for a Fixed-Wing Aircraft

The proposed innovation in Phase II focuses on advancing the SAF-compatible hybrid-electric propulsion system for fixed-wing aircraft, aiming to validate in-flight battery energy closure, enhance aerodynamic efficiency, and demonstrate autonomous operations through Simplified Vehicle Operations (SVO). Building upon the foundational work in Phase I, Phase II will pursue large-scale Multi-Disciplinary Design Analysis and Optimization (MDAO), uncertainty quantification, and subscale flight testing to optimize and validate the hybrid-electric propulsion system and its operational capabilities. Phase II will leverage Computational Fluid Dynamics (CFD) and use CFD results to enhance the aero-propulsive performance models (APPMs) within the Parametric Energy-based Aircraft Configuration Evaluator (PEACE) framework. The PEACE framework will be used for genetic algorithms MDAO to evaluate the RN001 configuration and an alternative pusher propeller configuration, in both cases optimizing the hybrid-electric propulsion system for maximum efficiency and reduced emissions. Additionally, a hybrid-electric test bench will be developed to allow real-world validation of propulsion control laws and energy management strategies. Finally, subscale flight testing with both all-electric and hybrid-electric propulsion architectures will demonstrate and validate performance gains and operational efficiency, setting the stage for larger-scale implementation and FAA certification pathways. Targeting regional air cargo operators, the system enables fuel savings, maintenance cost reductions, and SAF compatibility, addressing industry challenges while reducing infrastructure dependence. By validating an efficient and scalable hybrid-electric propulsion system, Phase II research lays the groundwork for post Phase II commercialization, unlocking new capabilities for cargo, passenger, and defense aviation.

The proposed innovation aligns with NASA’s Aeronautics Research Mission Directorate (ARMD) initiatives in sustainable propulsion, automation, and next-generation aircraft design. Rune RN001’s SAF-compatible hybrid-electric propulsion system and Simplified Vehicle Operations (SVO) directly support key NASA research priorities. This effort advances NASA ARMD Strategic Thrust 3 (Ultra-Efficient Subsonic Transport) by demonstrating how hybrid-electric and distributed electric propulsion (DEP) architectures can reduce aviation emissions by up to 75% while maintaining operational flexibility. Additionally, NASA ARMD Strategic Thrust 6 (Assured Autonomy for Aviation Transformation) is supported through SVO development, reducing pilot workload and enabling scalable m:N operations, where one pilot oversees multiple aircraft. Key program alignments include the Transformative Aeronautics Concepts Program (TACP), where the hybrid-electric DEP system and subscale flight testing contribute to NASA’s exploration of energy-efficient and sustainable propulsion systems integrating alternative fuels and electrified propulsion. Under the Advanced Air Vehicles Program (AAVP), this research optimizes fuel consumption, emissions reduction, and energy management for regional and cargo aviation, informing future hybrid-electric aircraft architectures. While targeting regional air cargo, Rune RN001 also contributes to NASA’s Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) Research & Integration efforts by providing insights into certification pathways, automation functions, and energy management strategies applicable to broader AAM applications. By validating hybrid-electric propulsion and autonomy, this research supports NASA’s Net-Zero Aviation goals, enhances operational efficiency, and provides critical data for future flight demonstrators and certification frameworks, accelerating sustainable aviation development. Rune Aero’s hybrid-electric propulsion system presents significant commercialization opportunities in the regional air cargo, passenger transport, and defense sectors. The primary market includes regional cargo operators such as UPS, FedEx, DHL, and independent freight carriers, which seek fuel-efficient, lower-maintenance, and SAF-compatible solutions to reduce operational costs and meet net-zero targets. By enabling fuel savings and maintenance cost reductions, the system provides a scalable pathway to decarbonizing short-haul logistics without relying on extensive charging infrastructure. For regional passenger aviation, the technology supports commuter airlines and small aircraft operators facing rising fuel costs and emissions regulations. The hybrid-electric system improves efficiency and range while maintaining payload capabilities, offering a cost-effective alternative to full battery-electric designs. Additionally, defense and surveillance applications present another major market, where autonomous hybrid-electric propulsion enhances mission endurance, fuel efficiency, and operational flexibility for ISR (Intelligence, Surveillance, and Reconnaissance) missions in contested or remote environments.

This is a mature technology (TRL 7+) — the realistic path in is usually NASA's Technology Transfer Program: licensing an existing NASA patent, or a Space Act Agreement to use NASA facilities/expertise directly. NASA also runs a startup licensing program with no upfront fee for companies formed to commercialize a specific NASA technology.

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