PHARES will see the development of a hybrid-electric propulsion demonstrator featuring a Pratt & Whitney Canada PW127XT-derivative turboprop engine combined with a Collins Aerospace 250 kW electric motor and power controller. The system will be connected through an optimised propeller gearbox and will integrate thermal efficiency improvements. Collins will also design an advanced propeller system to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce noise.

Pratt & Whitney Canada will collaborate with RTX business Collins Aerospace, ATR, Airbus and other research organisations under the PHARES consortium. The demonstrator aims to deliver up to 20% improved fuel efficiency on regional aircraft missions.

“Hybrid-electric propulsion and electrified aircraft systems are key parts of RTX’s technology roadmap for optimising performance and enhancing fuel efficiency across multiple future aircraft platforms, and PHARES represents a transformative opportunity to demonstrate the potential for regional aviation,” said Maria Della Posta, president of Pratt & Whitney Canada. “Through our Pratt & Whitney Canada and Collins businesses, we will leverage our industry-leading experience in propulsion and electric power systems, along with our state-of-the-art research facilities.”

PHARES is part of Clean Aviation’s Ultra-Efficient Regional Aircraft architecture, supporting the European Union’s climate action plan and aviation’s long-term decarbonisation goals. Clean Aviation, a public-private partnership between the European Commission and the aeronautics industry, is investing €4.1 billion in disruptive technologies aimed at reducing the emissions of short-medium range and regional aircraft by at least 30% compared to 2020 standards.

By leading PHARES, Pratt & Whitney Canada underscores its role in shaping next-generation propulsion systems and advancing sustainable aviation solutions for regional flight.