An engine in which thrust is achieved by converting electrical energy into high temperature plasma discharges that, in turn, apply thermal, pressure, and/or kinetic energy to a stream of passing air. The engine comprises a plasma region that includes a pair of gapped electrodes, such that the plasma discharges occur in the electrode gap. An energy storage device generates voltage pulses between the electrodes that electrically break down the air as the operating medium within the electrode gap and create plasma discharges.