Kepplair Evolution

About Kepplair Evolution

Kepplair Evolution is an aeronautical company focused on developing multi-role aircraft solutions, primarily for aerial firefighting. The company was founded by David Joubert, an airline pilot with over two decades of experience flying Airbus A320 and Boeing 777 aircraft. His background includes diverse business ventures and a commitment to environmental solutions, which influences the company's direction.

The core of Kepplair Evolution's business is the development of innovative conversion projects for existing aircraft. One of their main projects is the KEPPLAIR 72, which involves converting an ATR 72 regional aircraft into a water bomber. This project leverages the existing global maintenance and parts supply chain for the ATR 72, which is expected to reduce development time and costs, with a market launch anticipated for 2027. The company also initially explored using the Airbus A330 for conversion into a Very Large Air Tanker (VLAT).

The company's key technology is the KIOS airdrop system, a patented, semi-pressurized tank system designed for a constant flow rate. This system was co-developed with the Institute of Fluid Mechanics in Toulouse (IMFT). It is engineered to be retrofitted onto various aircraft types, turning them into water bombers without significant modifications to the airframe. The design aims to provide precise control over the release of water or retardant, creating a regular ground footprint and increasing intervention efficiency.

Kepplair Evolution's business model targets governments and civil security agencies, offering a versatile and cost-effective solution for emergency response. The multi-role configuration of their converted aircraft allows for applications beyond firefighting, including medical evacuation, cargo and logistics support for natural disasters, and passenger or troop transport. This versatility is a key selling point, aiming to increase the aircraft's profitability and utilization throughout the year. The company projects that the KEPPLAIR 72 will have over 30% lower operating costs compared to other aircraft on the market, partly due to simplified maintenance and reduced pilot training requirements.