The environmental impact of airplanes cannot be ignored. So, wouldn’t it make sense to switch to electric motors for airplanes, just like we did for cars? Indeed, will we ever witness electric airplanes soaring through the skies?
The contribution of airplanes to global carbon emissions is significant and projected to increase exponentially by 2050.
So, is it possible for us to transition to electric versions of airplanes, similar to cars? If so, when?
Electric airplanes could offer many benefits beyond just reducing carbon emissions. These include a 90% reduction in fuel costs, a 50% decrease in maintenance costs, and a 70% reduction in noise.
For example, electric motors require maintenance every 20,000 hours compared to conventional engines, which need maintenance every 2,000 hours. So, the potential savings in operational costs, along with environmental benefits, are significant.
Several companies, such as Airbus, Eviation, Ampaire, and MagniX, are already working on electric aircraft. “Cape Air,” an airline, plans to acquire one of the first electric airplanes from Eviation.
But when will we see these electric airplanes in the sky?
Companies and governments eager to invest in advancing technology are excited about electric aviation. Between 2017 and 2019 alone, around $250 million was invested in electric aviation initiatives. Currently, there are approximately 170 electric aircraft projects underway, many designed for private, corporate, and commuter travel. Airbus, for instance, predicts that by 2030, electric airplanes with a capacity of 100 passengers will be ready for operation.
