Reality of electric aircraft: From jet fuel to joules

• Author:
• Author name

  Quantumrun Foresight
• October 22, 2024

Insight summary

Electric aircraft are emerging as a potential solution to the aviation industry's significant carbon footprint, with efforts underway to integrate these environmentally friendlier options into commercial fleets. However, technological limitations, such as battery energy density, are challenging this transition. Advancements in battery technology and electric propulsion systems are crucial for the future of electric aviation, which could change travel habits, airline operations, and global regulatory frameworks.

Reality of electric aircraft context

Electric aircraft represent a transformative stride toward reducing the carbon footprint of air travel, a sector historically tethered to fossil fuel consumption. The aviation industry, contributing approximately 2.5 percent to global atmospheric pollution, faces the challenge of balancing environmental responsibilities with the societal and economic benefits of air travel. Several companies are trying to develop electric models, including Swedish startup Heart Aerospace's 30-seat, battery-powered passenger aircraft, the ES-30. The ES-30 is projected to start operating by 2028. Meanwhile, significant strides by airline companies United Airlines and EasyJet highlight a collective push toward integrating electric planes into commercial fleets. 

The shift toward electric aviation is mainly hindered by technological constraints, particularly the energy density of batteries compared to traditional jet fuel. Electric planes, including hybrids that combine batteries with fuel, are emerging as interim solutions to this dilemma. These aircraft offer a promising reduction in emissions and fuel consumption, particularly during take-off and taxiing, demonstrating the potential for electric propulsion systems to enhance the sustainability of shorter flights. 

Looking ahead, the success of electric aviation hinges on advancements in battery technology and the scalability of electric propulsion to larger aircraft. Notable developments, such as the collaboration between EasyJet and Wright Electric to produce the Wright 1, a larger, all-electric passenger jet, signal a future where electric aircraft could serve a broader range of flight distances. Additionally, novel aircraft designs by startups like Elysian can carry more passengers over longer distances on electric power. 

Disruptive impact

The shift towards electric aviation could fundamentally alter travel habits and preferences. Travelers may enjoy quieter, cleaner flights, encouraging more frequent air travel for short to medium distances. This trend could also make air travel more accessible and affordable as airline operational costs decrease and those savings are passed on to passengers. However, the reliance on charging infrastructure and potential limitations in range and capacity might require travelers to plan more meticulously, possibly leading to increased layovers or stops for direct long-distance flights.

Airlines may invest in new fleets, requiring significant upfront costs but potentially benefiting from lower maintenance and operational expenses in the long run. Tourism companies could see a boost in local travel as electric planes make short trips more eco-friendly and economical, possibly shifting the focus from international to domestic destinations. However, the initial investment in electric aircraft and the infrastructure to support them could strain smaller operators, potentially leading to consolidation in the market.

National and international regulations may need to be updated to accommodate new electric aircraft, including safety standards and air traffic management to handle potentially increased flight frequencies. Governments might also need to incentivize the development of sustainable aviation fuels and hybrid technologies during the transition period. On a local level, municipalities could benefit from reduced airport noise and air pollution, improving the quality of life for residents near airports. However, airports may need to navigate the logistics and funding of upgrading their facilities to accommodate electric planes.

Implications of the reality of electric aircraft

Wider implications of reality of electric aircraft may include: 

• A surge in demand for electrical engineers and battery technology experts, altering the labor market in aviation.
• Increased government investment in renewable energy sources to support electric aircraft charging infrastructure.
• The emergence of new airline routes, making previously uneconomical short-haul flights viable.
• A shift in airline fleet compositions, with a gradual phasing out of older, fuel-intensive aircraft.
• Enhanced global competitiveness among nations that are investing in electric aviation technology.
• Changes in consumer travel behavior, with a preference for environmentally friendly airlines.
• The development of new safety and maintenance protocols specific to electric aircraft operations.

Questions to consider

• How could the environmental benefits of electric aircraft impact your choice of airlines?
• How could electric aircraft change the way you plan your travel and destinations?