French aircraft manufacturer VoltAero has signed an order agreement with Malaysia’s HM Aerospace Sdn Bhd for 15 units of its Cassio 330 hybrid-electric aircraft, in a move the companies say will support the development of an electric-hybrid aviation sector in the region. The agreement also includes provisions for an additional 15 aircraft in the future.
The Cassio 330 will be used for professional pilot training at HM Aerospace, a flight academy under the Halim Mazmin Group—one of Malaysia’s diversified conglomerates with business interests spanning shipping, education, tourism, and aviation. VoltAero unveiled the production version of the Cassio 330 in June. The aircraft uses electric motors mounted on each side of the fuselage, complemented by a thermal engine that acts as a range extender. Unlike vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft, the Cassio 330 operates via conventional takeoff and landing, easing certification and infrastructure demands.
“The Halim Mazmin Group of companies share a common vision with VoltAero of applying innovation and excellence while adapting to the fast-changing business environment today, and tomorrow,” said Tn Sri Halim Mohammed, Founding Director of the Halim Mazmin Group. “By bringing the Cassio 330 into the HM Aerospace aircraft fleet, we will be utilizing airplanes that are advanced and highly eco-efficient to train the next generation of professional pilots.”
VoltAero’s CEO and CTO Jean Botti welcomed the partnership, noting its long-term strategic importance. “VoltAero looks forward to our long-term relationship with HM Aerospace and the Halim Mazmin Group as we join together in introducing – and supporting – a new era of aviation training with the Cassio 330,” he said.
With this latest agreement, VoltAero’s total order backlog for the Cassio aircraft family now stands at 280 units. The aircraft have attracted interest from operators focused on regional transport, air mobility, and business aviation, as the industry looks to reduce emissions and transition to more sustainable propulsion technologies.