There has been a huge increase in the demand of electric vehicles in recent years, and the relevant infrastructure is gradually been rolled out across Australia to accommodate this. However, there is another disruption that is about to occur to Australia’s infrastructure network – the addition of electric aviation.
Electric technology for aircraft has been rapidly developing overseas, with a huge increase in the technology locally too – with the overall aim to reduce emissions and operating up to 75 per cent. Other countries such as Norway are planning to have 100 per cent short-haul electric fleets by 2050.
Because of the long distances between cities, Australia has a reliance on air transportation. And with the low costs of competitive airlines, Australia has had flight passenger numbers double in the last 20 years – becoming the country with the most airline seats per capita.
Currently, there are two primary types of electric aircraft: short-haul aircraft, and vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) vehicles, which include drones. Smaller two-seat and four-seat aircraft are already flying in Australia today, however the key problem affecting broader commercial uptake is the need to ensure enough battery energy density. There are still some minor hurdles to overcome, however if Australia keeps pace with the rest of the world short-haul flights will be possible by 2030.
Why electric aircraft?
Electric aviation can greatly reduce both the financial costs and the environmental impact of fossil-fuel aircraft simultaneously. Some of the major costs to current airlines are fuel (27 per cent) and maintenance (11 per cent). The implementation of electric vehicles would significantly reduce these costs, giving short-haul aircraft a huge advantage over their counterparts.
Some airports, such as Sydney Airport, are restricted by noise, pollution and regulatory constraints – including late-night curfews – which can lead to major congestion. However, with an ever-increasing amount of flights under 1,000km departing from Sydney, the addition of low-noise, zero-emission aircraft would be able to overcome these issues.
The innovation of electric vehicles could also address major infrastructure projects currently proposed, such as high-speed rail between major cities. The investment and research into the potential of electric short-haul aircraft could be revolutionary in the long-term infrastructure planning of Australia’s future – benefitting governments, the aviation sector and passengers alike.
You can read more on the future of electric aircraft in Australia here