Braden Kim
CEO
PLANA
PLANA is building a hybrid‑electric eVTOL platform that provides fast, low‑cost regional transport without relying on extensive charging infrastructure. Using AI‑driven design and modular airframes, the aircraft can be configured for passenger, cargo, or air‑taxi missions, targeting short‑haul routes for airlines and logistics operators.
- Aerospace
- Artificial Intelligence
- Battery Technology
- Clean Technology
- Hardware
Updated 5 months ago
Funding
Raised to date
$308.9KRaised to date based on public sources. This may differ from the amount the company actually raised and is based only on what is publicly available on the internet.
Funding rounds are not available yet.
Founders
Product
Problem
Regional air travel is often slow, expensive, and limited to major hubs, making it inaccessible for many travelers and freight shippers. Existing aircraft rely on extensive ground infrastructure such as charging stations or large airports, creating high operational costs and environmental impact.
Solution
Plana is developing a scalable vertical‑takeoff‑and‑landing (eVTOL) platform that enables fast, low‑cost regional transportation without the need for extensive charging networks. The company leverages new FAA certification pathways and advanced AI‑driven design tools to accelerate development and reduce time‑to‑market. Its hybrid electric power system combines battery and fuel‑based propulsion to extend range while minimizing emissions. By focusing on modular aircraft architecture, Plana aims to offer a flexible solution that can be adapted for passenger, cargo, and air‑taxi services across short‑haul routes. The approach targets a new category of regional mobility that bridges the gap between ground transport and traditional aviation.
Target Audience
Primary customers are regional airlines, air‑taxi operators, and logistics companies seeking fast, cost‑effective short‑haul transport solutions.
Features
- Hybrid electric propulsion system that blends battery power with a fuel‑based generator for extended range and reduced reliance on ground charging infrastructure
- Modular airframe design allowing rapid configuration changes for passenger seating, cargo payload, or mixed‑use missions
- AI‑assisted aerodynamic and structural optimization to accelerate development cycles and improve performance efficiency
- Compliance with emerging FAA certification pathways for eVTOL aircraft, facilitating faster market entry
- Integrated flight‑control software with autonomous and pilot‑assist capabilities for safe operation in diverse airspace environments
- Scalable manufacturing strategy leveraging advanced composites and automated assembly processes