Against the backdrop of the global trend towards transport decarbonization, the aviation industry is preparing for a major transformation. American startup Cosmic Aerospace has unveiled a project that could change the landscape of private aviation: the four-seat, fully electric Cosmic One aircraft. The company aims to begin deliveries in 2029, relying on updated certification rules from the US Federal Aviation Administration (FAA).
Strategic shift and new goal
Cosmic Aerospace was founded in 2021 with the ambitious goal of creating an electric regional aircraft. However, the strategic focus has shifted: developers are now concentrating on a more compact model targeted at private aviation, flight schools, and flying clubs. This move allows for a faster time-to-market and better adaptation to specific general aviation niches.
Unique architecture and aerodynamics
The main engineering feature of the Cosmic One will be its powertrain, where six propellers are embedded directly into the wing. According to engineers, this configuration not only improves aerodynamic performance but also provides excellent visibility for the pilot and passengers from the cockpit. Furthermore, distributed propulsion enhances flight safety.
To increase reliability, the aircraft will be equipped with a ballistic parachute recovery system. Having six engines ensures high fault tolerance, which is critical for electric aviation, where the failure of a single component can be fatal.
Economics and competition
Cosmic Aerospace founder and CEO Christopher Sahin positions the new aircraft as a premium general aviation electric plane. The company expects the cost of the Cosmic One to be competitive with prices for modern Cirrus SR family models, making electric flight accessible to a wide range of private pilots.
Developers plan to get a full-scale demonstrator airborne within 18–24 months. To complete the testing program, the company has already begun the process of raising additional funding.
Technical implementation and certification
The project became possible thanks to the introduction of new FAA Part 22 certification rules (MOSAIC). These regulations removed previous weight limitations, allowing for the certification of larger and more technologically advanced aircraft, including fully electric models with multiple engines.
Currently, Cosmic Aerospace is independently developing key components: modular power units with air intakes and the cooling system. Meanwhile, electric motors, power electronics, and lithium-ion batteries will be sourced from third-party manufacturers, allowing for the optimization of production chains.
Specifications and first orders
The stated specifications of the Cosmic One are impressive for the light aircraft segment:
- Range: approximately 250 nautical miles (about 460 km).
- Endurance: more than two hours, including the mandatory energy reserve.
- Comfort: four-seat configuration.
At present, the project is in the detailed development stage. The company has already built a full-scale cockpit mockup and is demonstrating it to potential customers. The first client is the American organization Centennial Flyers, which signed a preliminary agreement for the delivery of four aircraft with an option for two more.
