Cory Combs

Cory Combs is a mechanical engineer, entrepreneur, and clean technology specialist with a focus on aviation innovation. Combs earned both bachelor's and master's degrees in mechanical engineering from Stanford University. His expertise in systems engineering and passion for aviation led him to explore the viability of electric aircraft, conducting early experiments in the field. Prior to founding his own company, Combs managed research programs with international partners on pollution reduction and energy efficiency technologies. At Northrop Grumman's advanced aircraft programs unit, he worked as a research and development engineer on multiple X-plane projects designed to test novel aerospace concepts.

Combs co-founded Ampaire to advance research and development in electric aircraft, identifying hybrid-electric propulsion as a critical step toward fully electric power systems due to the gradual progress in battery technology. Inspired by a reference to supersonic electric jets in a popular film, Combs analyzed recent battery advancements and determined that a cleaner, electric jet was feasible. By adopting a hybrid approach, he aimed to accelerate the adoption of electric air travel. Combs holds multiple invention disclosures, patent submissions, and trade secrets in both the aerospace and clean technology sectors, contributing significantly to Ampaire's intellectual property and strategic direction.

Through retrofitting existing aircraft with hybrid-electric systems, Combs played a key role in developing the "Electric EEL," the largest plane to fly with hybrid propulsion. The "Electric EEL," based on a Cessna 337 Skymaster, features a parallel hybrid configuration with a piston engine replaced by an electric motor and battery. The demonstrator achieved substantial fuel savings during trials with Scottish regional carrier Loganair. Ampaire has expanded its fleet and technology, with the AmpDrive system operating in multiple hybrid-electric aircraft and accumulating extensive flight miles with a strong safety record.

Combs has received recognition as a TED Fellow, Emerson Collective Dial Fellow, and ICAS Aerospace Innovation Award recipient for his contributions to electric aviation. In his TED Talk, Combs addresses the environmental impact of airplanes and Ampaire's efforts to reduce emissions through hybrid-electric planes. He has delivered keynote speeches at international forums, highlighting the challenges and opportunities in decarbonizing aviation and other sectors. Combs serves on Ampaire's board and advocates for the electric aviation industry through thought leadership and public engagement.

Ampaire collaborates with organizations such as NASA and ARPA-E to refine and test its technology. The company holds contracts with NASA, the U.S. Department of Energy, and the U.S. Air Force. Ampaire's technology offers significant reductions in fuel consumption, maintenance costs, and noise, supporting the advancement of sustainable aviation. Through his work, Combs contributes to the ongoing development and adoption of electric and hybrid-electric aircraft, shaping the future of sustainable flight.