Will a Battery Breakthrough Propel Electric Aviation Forward?

This month, an electric aircraft named Alia made headlines by completing a successful battery-powered flight in Norway, showcasing the potential of low-emission aviation. Built by Beta Technologies, this innovative plane is designed for cargo operations and represents a significant step towards sustainable air travel.

Last updated: 16 October 2023 (BST)

Key Takeaways

• Alia flew 100 miles in 55 minutes, demonstrating the capabilities of electric aviation.
• The aircraft can carry up to 560 kg of cargo and has a range of 400 km on a single charge.
• Test-flights in Norway are part of a broader initiative to establish low-emission aviation in Europe.
• Hybrid technology is being explored as a solution to range limitations in electric flight.
• Alia’s success follows a series of setbacks in the electric aviation industry, highlighting ongoing challenges.

The Rise of Electric Aviation

The aviation industry is under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint, which currently accounts for about 3% of global greenhouse gas emissions. In response, companies like Beta Technologies are pioneering electric aircraft that promise to revolutionise air travel. Alia's recent flight in Norway is a testament to the progress being made in this sector.

Alia: A Milestone in Electric Aviation

Alia, the electric plane developed by Beta Technologies, recently completed a flight from Stavanger to Bergen, covering 160 km in just 55 minutes. This flight not only highlights the aircraft's capabilities but also underscores Norway's ambition to become an international test arena for electric aviation.

According to pilot Jeremy Degagne, this journey significantly reduces travel time compared to road transport, which typically takes about four and a half hours. “It is an important milestone for Norway as an international test arena,” remarked Karianne Helland Strand, director at Avinor, the state-owned airport operator.

Technical Specifications and Capabilities

Alia is designed for cargo operations but can also be adapted for passenger travel and medical transport. Key specifications include:

• Maximum cargo capacity: 560 kg
• Flight range: Up to 400 km on a single charge
• Refuelling time: Less than 40 minutes via plug-in charging
• Passenger capacity: Up to five seats when configured for travel

The aircraft's ability to recharge quickly and its environmentally friendly design are among its most compelling features. Beta Technologies has ambitions to secure certification for Alia in the US within the year, enabling it to operate commercially.

A Whirlwind European Tour

Before its flight in Norway, Alia embarked on an extensive European tour, beginning in Ireland and making notable appearances at the Farnborough and Paris Air Shows. The aircraft also made stops in Germany and Denmark, garnering attention and interest from various stakeholders in the aviation industry. This tour is part of a concerted effort to showcase the capabilities of electric aviation.

Challenges Facing Electric Aviation

Despite the excitement around electric aircraft, the industry faces significant challenges. The Pipistrel Velis Electro remains the only electric plane to receive full certification from European authorities, and even that model is limited to training purposes due to its 185 km range and 50 minutes of flight time.

Many electric aviation endeavours have encountered setbacks, with aviation giant Airbus halting development of its CityAirbus electric aircraft earlier this year. The primary limitation remains the energy density of current battery technology, which has not seen significant improvements over the past two decades. Aviation expert Guy Gratton stresses the need for a “revolution” in battery chemistry for electric flight to become viable on a larger scale.

Exploring Hybrid Technology

To overcome the limitations of electric flight, many companies are now exploring hybrid technology. Just as hybrid cars paved the way for full electric vehicles, hybrid aircraft could serve as a transitional solution. One such company is Heart Aerospace, which has developed a 30-seater prototype plane, the X1, designed to fly both on batteries and traditional fuel.

Heart Aerospace's approach involves using batteries for shorter routes while incorporating fuel as a backup for longer distances. This design not only reduces the number of batteries needed, making the aircraft lighter and cheaper, but also allows for greater passenger capacity. Their hybrid model is expected to undergo test-flights in 2026, with ambitious plans for extended range and capacity.

The Future of Electric and Hybrid Aviation

As interest in electric and hybrid aircraft grows, numerous startups are entering the market. Electra, a US-based company, aims to introduce a nine-seater hybrid plane by 2029, using a combination of jet fuel and electric power for its operations. Beta Technologies also has its sights set on hybrid models for both civilian and defence purposes, with plans for autonomous flight as well.

Shawn Hall, Beta's chief revenue officer, emphasises that hybrid technology offers a pathway to achieve longer ranges while maintaining environmental benefits. “You then layer on hybrid technology,” he explains. This approach aligns with the industry's need to balance operational efficiency with sustainability.

Greener Alternatives and Sustainable Aviation Fuel

In addition to electric and hybrid technologies, the aviation industry is also exploring greener fuels, such as sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) and hydrogen-based systems. These alternatives have attracted substantial investment and interest, but they must prove their commercial viability and safety before widespread adoption can occur.

As the industry grapples with electrification and carbon reduction, innovative technologies will play a crucial role in shaping the future of air travel. However, challenges remain, and significant work is needed to create a sustainable aviation framework.

Conclusion

The recent successful flight of Alia in Norway is a promising development in the evolution of electric aviation. While the path forward is fraught with challenges, the exploration of hybrid technologies and alternative fuels offers hope for a more sustainable future in air travel. The aviation industry stands at a crossroads, balancing the need for innovation with the imperative of reducing its carbon footprint. How will the future of aviation unfold? Only time will tell, but the momentum towards greener solutions is undeniable.

FAQs

What is the range of the Alia electric plane?

The Alia electric plane can fly up to 400 km (approximately 250 miles) on a single charge, making it suitable for various cargo and passenger transport applications.

How long does it take to recharge the Alia?

Alia can be fully recharged in less than 40 minutes by plugging it in, similar to how one would recharge an electric car.

What are the main challenges facing electric aviation?

The primary challenges include the limited range due to current battery technology, regulatory hurdles for certification, and the need for significant advancements in battery chemistry.

What is hybrid technology in aviation?

Hybrid technology in aviation refers to aircraft that use both electric power and traditional fuel, allowing for greater range and flexibility in operations, especially on longer flights.

What is sustainable aviation fuel (SAF)?

Sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) is a biofuel used to power aircraft, produced from renewable resources and designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional fossil fuels.