News & Updates

The Air Current
September 6, 2023

Without a clean grid, today's plan for decarbonizing aviation won't fly

Magpie Aviation's far-out concept provides a window into the true challenges of decarbonizing flight.

Latest News

Saturday Startup Series
July 24, 2023

S3 Episode 1 – Magpie Aviation

Alumni of both Makani and Kitthyawk, Magpie co-founders Damon and Andy are working to develop a truly zero carbon solution for flight, by towing electric aircraft with other electric aircraft.

Magpie Aviation
July 24, 2023

Magpie Aviation Announces Inaugural Advisory Board Members: Patrick Edmond and Roei Ganzarski

Magpie’s inaugural Advisory Board members will play a pivotal role in guiding the company's strategic decisions, technological advancements, and industry partnerships.

Wall Street Journal
June 16, 2023

Electric Aircraft Suffer From Short Ranges. Could Towing Be the Answer?

Startup Magpie Aviation is testing whether electric passenger planes could be towed to extend their range. To find out what it might take for Magpie to tow single aisle jetliners, WSJ’s George Downs takes flight on an aerotowed glider.

Blog posts

April 28, 2023

4. A gliding inspiration

When we stood at a whiteboard to brainstorm ideas for tackling the bulk of aviation emissions, we experienced our golden aha moment.

April 26, 2023

3. Flight testing

We believe in getting into the sky as early and often as possible. Last month, we achieved the world’s first automated aerotowing connections.

April 2, 2023

2. Why Electric?

Battery-electric vehicles are, to date, the lowest emission, the most efficient, and the lowest cost zero carbon option in existence.