Collins completes SWITCH hybrid-electric testing
Analysis based on 7 articles · First reported Jul 22, 2026 · Last updated Jul 22, 2026
The successful testing demonstrates progress in hybrid-electric aviation technology, potentially boosting RTX's position in the sustainable aviation market. However, the impact is incremental as the technology is still years from commercialization.
RTX Corporation — Collins Aerospace, an RTX business, announced the completion of integrated lab testing for the European Union's Clean Aviation SWITCH project at The Grid in Rockford, Illinois. The hybrid-electric powertrain subsystems successfully operated with simulated aircraft and engine systems and will now move to Airbus laboratories for further integration testing. The SWITCH project aims to improve engine efficiency for future short- and medium-range aircraft by integrating hybrid-electric systems on a Raytheon Technologies — Pratt & Whitney Canada GTF engine. Following SWITCH, Collins will support the Airbus-led LEIA project, where it serves as technical lead for energy sources. The LEIA demonstrator will advance components and systems for future hybrid-electric aircraft, including high voltage generation and distribution. Testing will occur across multiple sites in Europe and the US. The International — Clean Aviation Joint Undertaking, a public-private partnership between the International — European Commission and the European aeronautics industry, funds both projects with a total budget of €4.1 billion. The program targets a 30% reduction in emissions compared to 2020 state-of-the-art aircraft.
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