August 7, 2026
Utah Takes Flight with Historic Hybrid Electric Aircraft
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UDOT is helping shape the future of transportation, and this time, it's happening in the sky.
This week, UDOT officially launched its uFLY initiative with Utah's first demonstration flight of a hybrid electric aircraft. Operated by Ampaire, the aircraft flew from Salt Lake City International Airport to Cedar City Regional Airport, marking another milestone in Utah's leadership in advanced air mobility.
The demonstration is the first of several planned through uFLY, a first of its kind partnership led by UDOT that brings together western states, industry partners and researchers to safely test the next generation of aircraft in real world conditions. The program will help explore how advanced aviation can improve connections between urban and rural communities while supporting future transportation planning.
Adding to the Utah connection, the aircraft is powered in part by battery technology developed by Utah based EP Systems, showcasing innovation happening right here at home.
"Today's flight marks the start of an important effort to test advanced aircraft in real world conditions," said UDOT Aeronautics Director Matt Maass. "Each demonstration helps us better understand how these technologies can safely connect communities and demonstrates why Utah is leading the way in advanced air mobility."
Want to see the historic flight? Check out this video.
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