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Sustainable aviation: A work in progress – Airport World

Airport World takes a closer look at some of the sustainability stories making headlines across globe in the first quarter of the year. Ambitious daa unveils environmental sustainability initiatives Irish airport operator, daa, has unveiled a 20-point plan to “accelerate its environmental sustainability ambitions” at Dublin (DUB) and Cork (ORK) airports and ensure that it achieves net zero emissions by 2050. The sustainability initiatives include Making Dublin Airport diesel free, with all owned vehicles previously powered by diesel switching to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO); the light vehicle fleets at both DUB and ORK being 100% electric by the end...

Pipistrel delivers 100th Velis Electro – Australian Flying

Textron subsidiary Pipistrel Aircraft last week delivered the 100th example of the electricity-powered Velis Electro two-seat trainer. The Velis Electro is a classic Velis airframe fitted with a 57.6-kW Pipistrel E-811 electric motor drawing from two batteries totaling 20 kWh. The Slovenian manufacturer markets the aircraft as a cost-effective flight trainer for short-duration lessons. “The Velis Electro leads the journey towards more sustainable flight solutions, and the entry into service of S/N 100 is a notable achievement,” said Gabriel Massey, President and Managing Director of Pipistrel. “Powered by over 15 years of expertise in electric flight, this aircraft brings...

Department of Energy Releases Report Outlining How America Can Sustainably Produce More than One Billion Tons of Biomass Per Year

The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) today released the 2023 Billion-Ton Report (BT23), which shows that the U.S. could sustainably triple its production of biomass to more than 1 billion tons per year. The report—the fourth in a series of assessments of potential biomass resources in the United States since 2005—finds that 1 billion tons of biomass could satisfy over 100% of the projected demand for airplane fuel in the country, allowing the U.S. to fully decarbonize the aviation industry with sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).

Alaka’i Makes the Case for Hydrogen-powered eVTOL Aircraft

While most eVTOL aircraft developers have committed to either purely battery-electric or hybrid powertrains, Alaka’i Technologies believes that hydrogen fuel cells offer the best solution for sustainable, emissions-free air transportation. The company is developing a four-passenger, hydrogen-powered eVTOL aircraft called Skai that it says will boast an initial range of 200 miles. A subsequent larger version of the aircraft will be able to fly twice as far, Hugh Kelly, head of marketing at Alaka’i, told AIN. Alaka’i, which unveiled the Skai concept in 2019, has already built three full-scale prototypes of the multicopter vehicle and has been...

SPEAKER INTERVIEW: Olivier Jankovec, director general of ACI Europe – Passenger Terminal Today

Olivier Jankovec, director general of ACI Europe, speaks to Passenger Terminal Today to reveal more about his presentation – “Airport climate action scales new heights with Level 5″ – on Day 2 at Passenger Terminal Conference 2024 (April 16, 17, 18) in Frankfurt, Germany, next month. What is your presentation about? In December 2023, ACI launched a brand-new, topmost level of Airport Carbon Accreditation – Level 5. This new level certifies airports for achieving a net-zero carbon balance for emissions under the airport’s direct control and committing to net zero for Scope 3 emissions by 2050 or sooner.

Sasol, Topsoe’s Zaffra aims to decarbonise aviation

A new joint venture launched by global chemicals and energy company Sasol in partnership with low carbon technologies firm Topsoe promises to accelerate the development and delivery of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). Based in the Netherlands, the initiative aims to reduce carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions in the aviation industry by combining Topsoe’s carbon emission reduction technologies with Sasol’s experience in plant construction. The International Energy Agency (IEA) calculates that the aviation industry accounts for around 2% of global energy-related CO2 emissions, having grown faster in recent decades than rail, road or shipping. It is estimated that SAF could deliver...

EcoGate technology allows commercial air travel ground equipment to share power needs

This enables enabling eGSE adoption despite infrastructure constraints, Josh Smith reports for Ground Support Worldwide. Ground handlers have an important role to play in the aviation industry’s mission to reduce carbon emissions. For the commercial aviation sector to meet its goal of net zero emissions by the year 2050, greener ground services are must. As a result, more focus is being placed on electric ground support equipment (eGSE), Josh Smith reports for Ground Support Worldwide. Continue reading original article. The Military & Aerospace Electronics take: 14 March 2024 - According to Alberto Rocha, director of sales – the Americas...

Wisk Partners with Sugar Land for Autonomous Air Taxi Vertiport in Texas

Autonomous flying taxis carrying passengers are expected to be winging their way across the skies above the greater Houston area within the next several years, as the result of a partnership between advanced air mobility (AAM) company Wisk and the city of Sugar Land, Texas. Under their agreement, Wisk and Sugar Land will work jointly to identify and assess a location at the Sugar Land Regional Airport to develop a vertiport for Wisk’s autonomous air taxi operations. Preliminary plans call for Wisk to establish a base of operations for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft by...

🔋 This innovation doubles the lifespan of lithium-ion batteries

Lithium-ion batteries, essential to modern technology, are now benefiting from a significant improvement thanks to a recent discovery. A research group, led by Professor Noriyoshi Matsumi from the Japan Advanced Institute of Science and Technology (JAIST), has developed a new binder made of poly(vinylphosphonic) acid (PVPA) for silicon oxide (SiO) electrodes in lithium-ion batteries. This innovative binder promises to enhance the electrochemical efficiency and longevity of batteries, paving the way for wider applications, including in electric vehicles...

Advanced Air Mobility: Legal Authorities and Issues to Consider for Operations

Advanced Air Mobility is an emerging aviation concept that will use new types of aircraft and technology, such as electric aircraft that can take off and land vertically. Before new aircraft can be used, the FAA needs to certify the designs and regulate how they are operated. In the near term, the FAA plans to use a combination of existing requirements—like air traffic control procedures—and temporary rules to ensure safe operations…

Augusta Regional Airport and SRNL announce new partnership, new air taxis coming in 2026

Augusta Regional Airport and SRNL announced a new partnership and a plan was announced to offer air taxi services in Augusta in the next few years. During a press conference Thursday at the Georgia Cyber Center, the Augusta Regional Airport and the Savannah River National Lab announced a new partnership centered around emerging aerospace technologies. Once implemented, the two organizations will participate jointly in various research and resource initiatives, including funding opportunities for projects and joint utilization of facilities and airspace. "I commend the airport team for their forward-thinking partnership with the SRNL," said Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson. "They...

VoloCity eVTOL passes ground vibration tests

Volocopter has completed the ground vibration testing of its VoloCity eVTOL aircraft, working in partnership with German aerospace research agency DLR. Volocopter plans to begin commercially operating its two seat all-electric VoloCity this year, providing short flights in urban areas. The 18-rotor eVTOL aircraft has a range of 22 miles (35km) and a top speed of 69mph (110km/h). The VoloCity is expected to debut alongside other eVTOL aircraft at the Paris Olympics in July and be used to transport athletes and dignitaries using five vertiports spread across the city. The ground vibration test (GVT) program was run over five...

Biden’s NASA FY 2025 Budget Supports US Moon Mission, Climate Leadership

The Biden-Harris Administration has unveiled the President's Budget for Fiscal Year 2025, which allocates funding to support various endeavors, including NASA's space exploration and climate research efforts. ... Funding for Climate Science, Space Tech, STEM, and More. ... The budget allocates funds for missions and activities in climate science that aim to advance Earth systems science and increase accessibility to climate data. These efforts seek to mitigate natural hazards, support climate action, and manage natural resources more effectively. ... The budget also emphasizes support for the aeronautics program, with investments to develop hybrid-electric jet engines and lightweight aircraft structures. These advancements...

Denver International Airport receives $300K in federal funding for electrification plan

Denver International Airport (DEN) has been awarded $300,000 in federal funding for an Electrification Master Plan. Denver International Airport (DEN) has been awarded $300,000 in federal funding for an Electrification Master Plan to help reduce airport emissions through increased use of cleaner energy. This funding is part of a nearly $130 million package for various Colorado-based projects included in the federal funding bills for fiscal year 2024. Denver International Airport’s electrification plan “Our Electrification Master Plan underscores our Vision 100 commitment to become the greenest airport in the world as we grow to 100 million annual passengers. This federal...

Thriving in an uncertain future

Aviation is committed to net zero carbon emissions by 2050, including the air cargo sector. At the World Cargo Symposium, Marie Owens Thomsen, IATA’s Chief Economist and SVP, Sustainability, put this challenge into context. In 2023, the world produced some 37.4 gigatons of CO2, 59 gigatons including all greenhouse gases. Aviation’s share of this is just 2% while transport’s total contribution is 23%. Transport’s CO2 output comes mainly from road vehicles, which produces more than 70% of its total, followed by shipping. “We must do something about our emissions, but we must also keep our perspective,” said Thomsen. She...

REPORT: Scaling Up Sustainable Aviation Fuel Supply: Overcoming Barriers in Europe, the US and the Middle East

This report provides a comprehensive set of key actions that stakeholders along the entire aviation value chain should take to move towards 10% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by 2030 and subsequent sector decarbonization by 2050. The report showcases critical technologies for scaling up SAF, and examines the limitations and current barriers constraining both cost and supply. It also discusses the optimal global production hubs to satisfy the growing demand. With a focus on three regions – Europe, the US and the Middle East – the report contains insights from stakeholders in the aviation and energy industries as well...

Green Hydrogen from Gujarat to Illuminate Oman Airport

In a groundbreaking collaboration, Gujarat's innovative green hydrogen technology is set to illuminate Oman Airport, paving the way for a sustainable energy future. This initiative marks a significant stride in the global shift towards eco-friendly aviation solutions. The project, a testament to India's prowess in renewable energy, involves the production and utilisation of green hydrogen as a clean and efficient energy source. Gujarat, with its robust infrastructure and commitment to environmental sustainability, emerges as a key player in providing innovative solutions for the aviation industry. The plan entails establishing a state-of-the-art green hydrogen production facility in Gujarat, harnessing...

EVTOL Battery Study Unveils Distinctive Operational Needs

Researchers at the Department of Energy's Oak Ridge National Laboratory are taking cleaner transportation to the skies by creating and evaluating new batteries for airborne electric vehicles that take off and land vertically. These aircraft, commonly called eVTOLs,range from delivery drones to urban air taxis. They are designed to rise into the air like a helicopter and fly using wing-borne lift like an airplane. Compared with helicopters, eVTOLs generally use more rotors spinning at a lower speed, making them both safer and quieter. The airborne EV's aren't just flying cars, and ORNL researchers conclude that eVTOL batteries can't...

Microweather Research Shines a Light on Advanced Air Mobility Safety Planning | MITRE

Drone and air taxi operations are scaling up across the globe. A MITRE-developed predictive capability will help safeguard these vehicles from a key hazard—the effects of microscale turbulence and other wind conditions. Imagine hopping on an electric air taxi to travel across town or having your pharmacy purchase delivered by drone. Plans for that future are well underway. But to enable it, factors affecting the safety of these and other advanced air mobility (AAM) operations must be understood. Key among them is the effect of extremely localized—or microscale—weather. In other words, what low-lying weather conditions could be dangerous...

Charlotte-based Collins Aerospace talks about move toward electric flight

About 350 aerospace engineers listened for 30 minutes to the innovative work Collins Aerospace is doing in the hybrid-electric propulsion of aircraft when it came time for questions. Electric vehicles have been around for years, said one of the engineers, so what has Charlotte-based Collins Aerospace learned from the makers of the Prius? “Here’s one of the dilemmas the aviation industry has,” answered Henry Brooks, president of Power and Controls at Collins Aerospace. “Cars run on the ground and airplanes don’t.” Brooks leads one of six Collins Aerospace business units from his office in Charlotte. He says the aviation...

Hong Kong cargo operators achieve new environmental accolade

Hong Kong International Airport’s two biggest cargo operators have become the first cargo handling companies in Asia to achieve IATA Environmental Assessment (IEnvA) certification. Cathay Cargo Terminal and Hong Kong Air Cargo Terminals Limited (Hactl) between them handle over two million tonnes of cargo per annum at the airport. IEnvA is a comprehensive certification programme developed by the International Air Transport Association (IATA) that independently assesses the commitment of aviation stakeholders including airlines, airports, cargo-handling facilities, freight forwarders and ramp handlers, to continuously improve their environmental and sustainability performance...

Joint Base Cape Cod exploring uses of new, fully electric aircraft

The 100% battery-powered Alia and its crew landed at the base’s 102nd Intelligence Wing for a demonstration on March 8. The craft uses the same kind of fast chargers that power electric vehicles in under an hour. The U.S. Air Force has been testing the aircraft the last few months, for potential use in cargo and rescue missions. Its “roadshow” crew flew in from New Hampshire to the Joint Base for the recent demonstration. Ross Elkort is a Flight Test Engineer with Vermont-based aerospace company BETA Technologies. He told CAI that with no engine, Alia is much quieter than your average plane...

Eve Air Mobility Sponsors and Joins Airspace World to Debate the Introduction and Growth of the UAM Industry

Eve Air Mobility is excited to announce its second appearance at Airspace World, one of the world’s largest and most influential airspace and near-space management events. As a platinum sponsor, Eve will present a combination of panels, activations, and exclusive insights. Rob Weaver, Eve’s Urban ATM Global Business Development Lead, will represent the company in various speaking opportunities to discuss the introduction and growth of AAM, including topics such as safety, operation, airspace, and infrastructure readiness, as well as Eve’s latest updates in developing urban ...

Decarbonizing aviation attracts venture capital

Since 2016, some $2.4 billion worth of venture capital flowed to companies developing electric aviation and other air travel decarbonization technologies with a strong start in investment volume in 2024, according to Dealroom.co, a Dutch data and intelligence firm. The segment had a strong start in 2024, noted Dealroom.co senior analyst Lorenzo Chiavarini. “Aviation is one of the segments where we still don’t have a clear winning technology path to decarbonization to reach 2050 net-zero targets,” he told pv magazine. “In my assessment, it could be a threat or opportunity, either we don’t hit the targets, or we...

Cranfield Aerospace Integrates Hydrogen Fuel Cell Powertrain into Aircraft Nacelle

Cranfield Aerospace Solutions has integrated its hydrogen fuel cell powertrain into the nacelle of a testbed aircraft as it prepares to ground-test the technology it aims to use to produce hydrogen-powered regional airliners. The UK company said the integration of the 240-kilowatt propulsion system is the first step in preparing for ground tests that could lead to flight tests with a technology demonstrator by the end of 2024. Announcing the integration of the hydrogen fuel cells and electric motors on March 7, Cranfield Aerospace said performing the integration on a testbed has meant that it will not...

The World’s Only eVTOL Jet to Operate at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport

If you're excited about the prospect of emission-free urban air taxi flights, you'll be happy to hear about not just one but two important developments in connection to the New York area. The confirmation came as NYCEDC (the New York City Economic Development Corporation) completed the RFP (request for proposals) phase of its project for the Downtown Manhattan Heliport. We can expect a multitude of innovative aircraft to operate at this new hub, and this includes the Lilium eVTOL jet. The German eVTOL maker believes that its flagship aircraft, claiming to be the first of its kind...

Skyports and Bicester Motion unveil plans for UK’s first vertiport testbed for air taxi industry

Skyports Infrastructure (Skyports) has signed an agreement to develop the UK’s first vertiport testbed at Bicester Motion, Oxfordshire, the 444-acre estate dedicated to pioneering mobility technology, past, present and future. The new vertiport, which will include a compact 160 sq m passenger terminal, will be a critical facility for testing ground infrastructure and flight operations and will play a significant role in enabling the next generation of electric, low noise aviation in the UK...

Ryanair to purchase additional 500 metric tons of SAF from OMV

Following Ryanair’s purchase of 500 metric tons of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from OMV in October 2023, the airline on March 8 announced that it will take an additional 500 metric tons of SAF from OMV in 2024. This agreement will save a further 1,250-plus metric tons in CO2 emissions (equivalent to c.100 Ryanair flights from Dublin to Vienna). Under Ryanair and OMV’s MOU agreement, Ryanair has unique access to purchase up to 160,000 metric tons of SAF from OMV up to 2030...

Interparking elevates sustainable travel at Brussels Airport with 700 new EV charging stations

Interparking, overseeing public car parks at Brussels Airport, has introduced over 700 electric vehicle (EV) charging stations to meet the rising demand. Of the 13,000 parking spaces offered by Interparking at Brussels Airport, an initial 50 were designated for EV charging. Recognising the increasing popularity of electric cars, 500 new charging stations have been strategically placed in front of the airport terminal (P1 and P3) for passengers, while an additional 200 stations have been integrated into the P1 parking area for staff. This brings the total number of charging-equipped parking spaces to 750. Roland Cracco, CEO of Interparking,...

Magpie Aviation open sources electric cargo aircraft white paper | Revolution.aero

In the spirit of it taking a village to build an aircraft, Magpie Aviation is open sourcing an electric cargo airplane design it just developed through a six-month R&D programme. Magpie emerged on the scene last year with the unveiling of its unique airborne aircraft towing system. That technology, which enables meaningful ranges with current batteries, formed the basis for a new concept electric aircraft targeted at regional air cargo. Today, as part of its acquisition by Ampaire, the companies have decided to open source this design through a freely available white paper...

FAA (VIDEO) A New Era of Aviation: An Advanced Air Mobility Webinar Series

The FAA is at the forefront of establishing an operational Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) ecosystem at one or more key sites in the United States soon. The FAA is working to safely and responsibly usher in this new era in aviation. The aviation industry is experiencing growth in new and innovative aircraft design and operations. Many AAM operators intend to use existing infrastructure for initial operations, as well as new purpose-built infrastructure. As operators explore those options, questions arise as to what standards to use in the siting, design, and operation of AAM landing and take-off sites,...

Electricity & Airplanes – Lowering The Carbon Emissions Of Flight – CleanTechnica

Electrification of airplanes and the airline business is moving ahead with new vehicles from Mercedes and Airbus. There are two news stories out today that focus on different ways of using electricity to reduce the carbon emissions of airplanes. The first comes from Mercedes-Benz, which has worked with several partners to create a refueling vehicle for airplanes that is battery-powered. We don’t often pay much attention to the all the vehicles that service airplanes when they are on the ground, the ones that bring the jet fuel, transport luggage back and forth to the terminal, shuttle passengers from...

UK’s Largest Airports Group urges focus on SAF production over household waste electricity

Each year, approximately 8.5 million tonnes of household waste are incinerated to generate electricity, as noted by transport sustainability experts at ICF. Additionally, another 7.3 million tonnes are incinerated without any energy recovery. Rather than burning this waste for electricity production, it could be utilized to produce Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) at new refineries throughout the UK. This approach would provide airports with a direct supply of SAF while simultaneously generating tens of thousands of new green jobs. Research conducted by ICF indicates that the carbon emissions reduction achieved by using household waste to produce SAF would be...

SkyDrive Launches Production of SD-05 eVTOL Prototype

Japanese “flying car” developer SkyDrive has started building the first prototype of its three-seat SD-05 eVTOL aircraft. On March 7, the company announced it has started assembling the first parts in a joint operation with automotive manufacturer Suzuki Motor Corporation, through a subsidiary called Sky Works. Suzuki is providing space at its factory in Iwata City in Japan’s Shizuoka prefecture and according to SkyDrive, the site will have the capacity to assemble up to 100 aircraft per year. “This facility allows us to produce high-quality eVTOLs efficiently and effectively, ensuring we meet the needs of our customers,”...

FAA finalises airworthiness criteria for Joby’s eVTOL

Today, the FAA will publish the final airworthiness criteria for Joby Aviation’s JAS4-1 eVTOL aircraft. The publication comes 15 months after Joby’s proposed airworthiness criteria were initially released on the Federal Register in November 2022. The final 130-page document received 46 responses, largely from government agencies, private companies and organisations. Commenters included: EASA, UK CAA, NBAA, BETA Technologies and Volocopter. The document will be published today and is currently downloadable as an unpublished PDF on the Federal Register. The FAA has made a number of changes to the criteria from the proposed document. However, as first...

Electric plane charging deal will let pilots ‘tap ‘n’ take off’ | Envirotec

Pilots of electric planes can charge their aircraft with one tap of a card, says EV charging expert Octopus Energy, following a tie-up between the firm and AeroVolt. Octopus Electroverse – an award-winning electric vehicle (EV) charging platform – will sync with AeroVolt, the first ever aircraft charging network. Through this partnership, pilots of electric planes will get access to Electroverse’s easy charging experience at AeroVolt’s airside chargers around the country. The innovation is the next step in Octopus’ plans to rapidly accelerate the adoption of electric transport.

Airbus reveals fully electric aircraft prototype

The two-tonne class CityAirbus, with a wing span of approximately 12m, is being developed to fly with 80km range and to reach a cruise speed of 120km/h, making it suited for operations in major cities for a variety of missions. The unveiling coincided with the opening of the new CityAirbus test centre in Donauwörth, which will be dedicated to testing systems for electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (eVTOL). The centre, which is part of Airbus’ ongoing and long-term investment in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM),

Beta Technologies, Signature Aviation to Install Electric Aircraft Chargers at 3 Airports

Beta Technologies, a manufacturer of electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) and conventional takeoff and landing (eCTOL) aircraft, continues to expand its network of U.S. electric aircraft chargers. The firm on Thursday announced a formal partnership with Signature Aviation, a FBO network for business and private aviation, to install systems at three East Coast airports, with discussions underway to include additional locations. The first multimodal Beta charger is already installed and online at Signature’s Manchester-Boston Regional Airport (KMHT) terminal in New Hampshire, which the company said is the state’s first such system.

SpaceX-Backed Flying Car Startup Gets FAA Nod

Pre-orders for a “flying car” have soared in recent months leading industry experts to question how close we are to small passenger vehicle flight. Alef Aeronautics, a company backed by Space-X, specialising in the production of flying cars, has achieved 2,850 pre-orders for its electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) vehicle. The firm is backed by Tesla investor and venture capitalist Tim Draper, which has helped draw attention. Based in San Mateo, California, Alef Aeronautics is allowing customers to pre-order its two-seater flying car, the Alef Model A, online with a $150 deposit. Customers are allowed...

Beyond Aero Raises $24M, Pioneers Hydrogen-Powered Flight in France with CEO Eloa Guillotin at Helm

On a groundbreaking day in Southern France, Beyond Aero, a visionary French startup, embarked on a journey to transform the aviation industry. Led by the ambitious 27-year-old CEO, Eloa Guillotin, the company successfully conducted the first test flight of a hydrogen-electric plane, signaling a major leap towards decarbonizing private aviation. This remarkable feat was supported by a robust $24 million funding, with a significant seed round led by Initialized, positioning Beyond Aero at the forefront of eco-friendly aviation technology.

Ampaire buys electric aerotow startup Magpie

Hybrid-electric aircraft company Ampaire has bought Magpie Aviation a US-based startup developing aerotowing technology that boosts the range of electric aircraft. Silicon Valley-based Magpie was founded in 2022 and last year demonstrated the world’s first automated towing connections between two flying aircraft. Aerotowing uses larger fully or hybrid electric to charge a smaller electric aircraft during flight...

Virginia and Ohio Lead Group of States Forging a Collaborative Path to Develop AAM

Officials from DOAV, VIPC, JobsOhio and ODOT are co-leading the AAM Multistate Collaborative to discuss the role of state government in Advanced Air Mobility. We’re working together as states to develop a consistent set of policies and uniform facilities to continue the high degree of safety that is expected in the aviation industry.”— Greg Campbell, Director, Virginia Department of Aviation (DOAV)

Leading Commercial Airlines and EcoVadis Launch The Sustainable Airlines Initiative

Air France-KLM, Delta Air Lines and Virgin Atlantic today announced the launch of the Sustainable Airlines Initiative (SAI) in partnership with EcoVadis. Driven by members’ commitment to improve sustainability performance, the SAI will work to accelerate sustainable practices through close collaboration with trading partners to build transparency and scale positive impact across their value chains. “Commercial aviation is critical for our economies and a conduit for connecting billions of people. The environmental and social crisis the planet is facing has elevated the need for innovation not only in more sustainable fuel but also in more sustainable and...

BIG NEWS! 🤩Pipistrel Velis Electro earns LSA airworthiness exemption from the FAA

The Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted a light-sport aircraft (LSA) airworthiness exemption for the Pipistrel Velis Electro. Pipistrel, a Textron Inc. company, today announced the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has granted a light-sport aircraft (LSA) airworthiness exemption for the Pipistrel Velis Electro, opening up flight training in an electric aircraft within the United States. The FAA exemption allows U.S. flight schools to use the electric aircraft within their flight training programs. The Velis Electro offers a lower-cost and more sustainable learning platform for student pilots to acquire flying skills and go from zero flight experience to eventually...

Korea aims to commercialize UAM by 2025

South Korea plans to operate an urban air mobility (UAM) service for Seoul and its surrounding areas by 2025, according to the country’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) on Sunday. UAMs, which is still a novel concept, refers to the electric-powered vertical take-off and landing of small aircraft. They represent a new mode of transportation for logistics and people in the urban sky, commonly known as ‘flying taxis.’ ...

£360 million to boost British manufacturing and R&D

... As part of the investments announced today, almost £200 million of joint government and industry funding is also going to aerospace R&D projects, supporting the development of energy efficient and zero-carbon aircraft technology and accelerating the transition to net zero aviation. This includes £40 million which is going towards a project developing zero-carbon aircraft engine technology - led by Cambridge-based Marshall Group - and around £96 million is being invested in Airbus-led projects. Airbus, which manufactures almost all its aircraft wings in the UK bringing in...

Ireland Eyes 2027 Launch for Pioneering Air Taxi Service, Boosting Urban Mobility

Ireland is positioning itself at the forefront of urban air mobility, with plans to introduce the country's first air taxi service by 2027. Engineers and scientists at the Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI) in Shannon are collaborating with national and international partners to explore the use of drones for transporting people over urban areas. The Department of Transport has expressed its support for this innovative venture, highlighting a significant step towards enhancing Ireland's Innovative Air Mobility (IAM) industry. Innovative Air Mobility on the Horizon The...

Gatwick cuts Scope 1 vehicle emissions by 90 per cent through use of biofuels

Gatwick airport has switched its fleet of diesel vehicles to run on Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), in a move which it says will save 950 tonnes of carbon emissions per year. The London airport had around 300 vehicles including fire engines, airside operations vehicles and snow ploughs which were being powered by diesel. These account for around 85 per cent of Gatwick’s fleet, and all of them will now be powered by HVO until they are retired and replaced by electric vehicles. The...

VIDEO: Doroni unveils production-intent H1-X eVTOL, offering personal air travel up to 120 mph

Young urban air mobility (UAM) developer Doroni Aerospace is stepping out of the shadows and into the eVTOL startup with the official reveal of its flagship aircraft – the H1-X. The two-seat eVTOL was showcased during a livestream event today and is damn close to being market-ready, touting some impressive specs. Doroni Aerospace was founded in 2016 by Doron Merdinger – a lifelong entrepreneur with 25 years of design, manufacturing, and firm management expertise...

German regulator approves Volocopter as training organisation

Volocopter is now an approved training organisation following certification by the German Federal Aviation office (Luftfahrtbundesamt). This certification, held through its subsidiary Volocopter Air Services, allows the OEM to train pilots for its future products, and that training will go towards pilot licenses. Volocopter says is the first eVTOL aircraft developer to receive ATO. Oliver Reinhardt chief risk and certification at Volocopter said: “This is another substantial milestone on the way to bring electric air taxis to cities around the world. It bears witness to the robust aviation company Volocopter has...

Lyte Aviation Unveils Hydrogen-Powered VIP Jet: LA-44 X Prime Pre-Orders Skyrocket

Lyte Aviation’s innovative VIP eVTOLs, including the SkyBus and LA-44 X Prime, are reshaping urban air mobility with high capacity, luxury, and sustainability. Explore the market expansion and sustainability efforts driving the future of air travel. Lyte Aviation is making significant strides in the eVTOL industry by developing a VIP version of its high-capacity hybrid aircraft. This innovative move, aimed at redefining urban air mobility, has caught the attention of US-based operator Ghenus Air, which has pre-ordered ten aircraft. With the SkyBus and its luxurious variant, the LA-44 X...

WATCH: Beyond Aero flies first manned hydrogen flight in France

Beyond Aero achieves France’s first manned fully hydrogen-electric flight. The test flights, which were flown earlier this month from the Gap-Tallard airfield in Southern France, are the first manned hydrogen flights to be conducted in the country. The pilot was Paul Prudent and the aircraft a G1 Aviation two-seater ultralight aircraft retrofitted with Beyond Aero’s hydrogen-electric powertrain. The hydrogen powertrain drives a single propeller with two-thirds of its power coming from a hydrogen fuel cell and the remaining third supplied by batteries. The fuel cell was fueled by 1.2kg...

“Green” airports: the goal of Puglia, Albania and Montenegro

An Interreg cross-border cooperation project to reduce CO2 emissions at all levels, from aircraft engines to plastic consumption on the ground, has produced a practical handbook. We interviewed two of the main managers, Anita Maurodinoia and Vito Antonio Antonacci. Two years of dialogue and research, exchange of good practices and moments of discussion: throughout 2022 and 2023 the airports of Puglia, Albania and Montenegro were laboratories for experimentation on greenhouse gases thanks to the project Interreg SOLAR  , Sustainable reduction Of carbon footprint Level in program AiRports. The project involved Puglia Airports, Montenegro Airports, the Albanian...

Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, Embry-Riddle Team Up to Explore Potential Advanced Air Mobility Impacts on Airspace

Researchers from Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University are conducting a systematic evaluation of the impact of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) vehicles, such as air taxis and autonomous air delivery aircraft, on airport operations at Orlando International Airport. The project, which uses advanced simulation modeling, is a collaboration between the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates and manages Orlando International Airport; Embry‑Riddle’s College of Aviation; and the university’s Center for Aerospace Resilient Systems (CARS). The study will consider how to increase safety and air traffic flow efficiency with the integration of...

Universal Hydrogen Runs First Ground Test with Liquid Hydrogen Fuel Module

The proprietary module allows fuel to be directly loaded onto aircraft without needing hydrogen fuel infrastructure at airports. Universal Hydrogen has conducted a first test run with its megawatt-class fuel cell powertrain using its proprietary liquid hydrogen module to supply the fuel. The module powered the company’s iron bird ground test rig for over 100 minutes in an exercise intended to simulate the typical flight time of one of the regional airliners it aims to convert to hydrogen propulsion. According to Universal Hydrogen’s president and chief technology officer, Mark Cousin, this is the...

VIDEO: Low Altitude Economy: World’s first eVTOL cross-sea cross-city flight completed in Shenzhen

A three-hour trip, trimmed down to a mere twenty minutes. That's the future of regional transport, after the world's first public eVTOL flight took off in south China. Aviation firm AutoFlight had its unmanned electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft fly between Shenzhen and Zhuhai – making the maiden flight to be the first cross-city and cross-sea journey globally. CGTN's Omar Khan has more on this historic flight. OMAR KHAN Shenzhen, Guangdong Province "No pilot or driver, no wheels, red lights and stop signs. An open sky that has...

EIB Spearheads Green Financing by Purchasing Mezzanine Debt to Unlock €1.6 Billion for Eco Projects

The European Investment Bank is paving the way for a greener future with its groundbreaking venture in green financing, doubling funds for sustainable projects and setting a new benchmark for environmental investments. The European Investment Bank (EIB) is setting a new precedent in green financing by embarking on an ambitious venture to purchase mezzanine debt from banks. This initiative, aimed at mobilizing €1.6 billion for environmental projects, involves the use of synthetic risk transfers to facilitate greater investment in areas that are often overlooked due to financial constraints. Nicolas Mardam-Bey, a prominent...

UK CAA names first hydrogen ‘sandbox’ firms

The firms will test UK CAA regulations around hydrogen aviation fuel, and encouraging development of the fuel and its applications. The UK’s Civil Aviation Authority has named Cranfield Aerospace Solutions, Exeter Airport Consortium and ZeroAvia the first companies “to increase industry and regulatory readiness for the introduction of hydrogen fuel” via its hydrogen sandbox.  The programme was launched in November, backed by £1m ($1.25m), with the aim of testing the authority’s regulations around hydrogen aviation fuel, and encouraging development of the fuel and its applications.  Each of the first...

New Vertiports issue live

The new issue is FREE to read online What’s inside: INFRASTRUCTURE: Charging requirements and how suppliers intend to meet them PLANNING: How to rule out risk at every stage of your vertiports project DRONES: A ground-breaking UK project that will pave the way for eVTOLs DESIGN: What eVTOL developers want – and need – from vertiports SECURITY: Keeping passengers safe without compromising the premium vertiport experience SUSTAINABILITY: How developers are innovating to deliver truly environmentally friendly...

Vertical gets $10 million UK state eVTOL funding, reflecting big national stakes in eVTOL activity

Air taxi developer Vertical gets $10.5 million UK state subsidy, reflecting the high national economic stakes in eVTOL economic activity. Emerging electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft used in air taxi transportation will generate billions of dollars in new activity – a major new boost to national economies that governments don’t want foreign companies to dominate. The most recent example of that defensive reflex of local aerial markets comes from the UK, where national hero Vertical Aerospace has received an additional $10.5 million in state support. Vertical announced it has gotten $10 million...

UC Riverside: Strategy unveiled to achieve carbon-neutral air travel

UCR scientists unveil a path toward carbon-neutral air travel that lies in fostering development of e-kerosene, a type of sustainable aviation fuel made by combining captured carbon dioxide with hydrogen. International flights can transport us to most of the world’s major cities within a day or two and later bring us home — often for less than a thousand dollars per seat. This jet-setting, however, comes with a heavy carbon emissions cost. Flying coach from Los Angeles to London adds more carbon into the atmosphere than the average lifetime carbon...

Lilium Prepares to Ramp Up Production of Electric Jet Propulsion Units

Lilium, the manufacturer behind the design of the seven-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) Lilium Jet, is ramping up production of its flagship model. The German firm on Monday said it has begun installing a serial production line for the Jet’s electric propulsion units at its manufacturing facility in Wessling, Germany. The company expects the first prototype propulsion systems—which will support for-credit type certification testing with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA)—to roll off its production line in the second quarter of 2024. The...

Budget European start-up joins the lithium-metal battery race

Solithor is running with a composite electrolyte that avoids some of the pitfalls experienced by its bigger, wealthier rivals. Atlantic storm Isha blew through Sint-Truiden, Belgium, a town 65 km from Brussels—and the headquarters of the battery start-up Solithor—earlier this year, knocking over bicycles and motorbikes. Solithor is hoping to make a strong entrance of its own in the battery world with a highly energy-dense battery based on a lithium-metal anode and a novel solid electrolyte. On paper, Solithor doesn’t stand much chance of competing with the 50-plus other...

LCI May Bundle eVTOL Aircraft and Infrastructure in Advanced Air Mobility Leases

The leasing group has already made commitments to add 165 eVTOL aircraft to its portfolio through agreements with Beta Technologies and Elroy Air. Leasing group LCI may consider offering bundled leases covering new eVTOL aircraft and related infrastructure such as batteries and electric and hydrogen charging stations. Chief commercial officer Nigel Leishman told AIN the company is now exploring the "value proposition" for operators launching advanced air mobility services. “From LCI’s perspective, we could see a situation where you package the aircraft with the batteries and charging infrastructure to provide a turnkey solution...

The US Air Force Is Eyeing One of the Most Famous Personal eVTOLs

Pivotal’s Helix, originally known as Opener’s BlackFly, is one of the most exciting personal electric aircraft available for pre-order. What became known to the public as Opener's Blackfly is now Pivotal's Helix aircraft. It was one of the eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) pioneers and one of the most intriguing personal electric aircraft concepts. Today, it's not only gearing up for the first deliveries in just a few months but also kicking off an evaluation process with the US Air Force (USAF). AFWERX Agility Prime has been...

Raleigh-Durham International Airport Embarks on a Sustainable Journey with Solar-Powered Parking

Imagine arriving at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), where your search for parking leads you to Park Economy 3, a vast expanse now powered by the sun's relentless energy. This is not a glimpse into a distant, utopian future but the reality taking shape at RDU. The airport authority's decision to invest an additional $1 million in solar panel-equipped walkway roofs marks a significant step towards sustainability. This initiative, partly fueled by a federal tax credit, is set to transform the airport's largest remote parking lot into a beacon of renewable energy.

VIDEO: B.C. Canada company using electric plane to lay groundwork for sustainable aviation

Sealand Flight Ltd.’s all-electric Velis Electro aircraft has arrived in Campbell River, which aims to “lay the groundwork” for sustainable aviation in Canada. The future of flight has just arrived in B.C. A Campbell River flight school received delivery of its newest airplane, which looks similar to its other training aircraft but with one major difference.  Vancouver Island company says it is the first in the province to own and operate an electric airplane that will be used for training for the country. Sealand Flight Ltd.’s all-electric Velis Electro aircraft aims to...

FlyEurop launches as Belgium’s first eco-responsible private airline with Diamond DA62 aircraft

FlyEurop, Belgium’s inaugural eco-responsible private airline, founded by Stéphan Maertens, is officially launched, marking a commitment to sustainability The airline’s fleet, centred around the Diamond DA62 (registered OO-VIF) with low fuel consumption and minimal noise impact, aligns with FlyEurop’s dedication to eco-friendly air travel during the ecological transition. Having obtained the Air Operator Certificate (AOC) approval from EASA, FlyEurop is authorised for commercial passenger and cargo transport under European Union regulations. The Diamond DA62’s energy efficiency positions FlyEurop as a sustainable alternative, with fuel consumption over 10...

Dunkeswell Airfield UK flying into the future with first fully electric airplane

Dunkeswell Airfield officially unveiled its new fully electric airplane today, the first to be used in Devon. The UK company Aerovolt has installed an electric charger at the airfield with an electric plane, which will be used by the airfield to train pilots and leisure flying. At a press event today, the plane launched and will be open to the public tomorrow (Saturday, February 24). The two-seater aircraft is made of carbon fibre with an electric battery which has a run time of around 40 minutes depending on how the...

Ampaire completes hybrid-electric ground test using pure SAF

The company flew its hybrid-electric Eco Caravan using 100 percent ASTM D7566 SAF produced by partner Dimensional Energy, Jack Daleo writes for Flying. Ampaire, the company that set the endurance record for hybrid-electric flight in December, believes it can become even more efficient. The firm on Thursday announced it successfully completed a hybrid-electric ground test using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from partner Dimensional Energy. The pure, 100 percent ASTM D7566 SAF is produced from electricity and carbon dioxide and was used to fuel Ampaire’s nine-seat Eco Caravan, a modified Cessna 208B Grand Caravan,...

Energy secretary joins Sen. Maria Cantwell in visit to Washington state’s burgeoning battery hub

U.S. Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm, Washington Sen. Maria Cantwell and Washington Gov. Jay Inslee traveled to Eastern Washington Thursday to visit companies leading the state’s rapidly expanding battery hub. Their tour included stops at Group14 Technologies and Sila, which are building factories that will produce next-generation materials designed to make lithium ion batteries — including those found in electric vehicles — more powerful and faster charging. Both companies previously received $100 million grants created by the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law to fund the new facilities in Moses Lake. The U.S....

Chooose and BP Join Forces to Propel Airlines Towards a Greener Horizon

Discover how Chooose and BP are collaborating to transform the aviation industry with innovative digital solutions and sustainable aviation fuel programs. Imagine boarding a flight with the comforting knowledge that your journey contributes minimally to the planet's carbon footprint. This vision is edging closer to reality as Chooose, a vanguard in climate technology, collaborates with energy titan BP to steer the aviation industry towards sustainable horizons. With a robust investment reportedly surpassing $20 million, this partnership is set to revolutionize how airlines tackle their carbon emissions through the innovative use of digital solutions and sustainable aviation...

Hydrogen to be a potential enabler to Singapore’s aviation decarbonisation

The Singapore Hydrogen Cooperation Committee sees hydrogen fuel playing a potential role in the state’s aviation decarbonisation journey.  The working group was formed following the signing of the Cooperation Agreement by Airbus, Changi Airport Group, Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS), and Linde in February 2022. Since then, the committee has examined regional and local market demand and supply for hydrogen, the hydrogen supply chain and infrastructure requirements, and the potential considerations for establishing a successful hydrogen ecosystem for aviation in the city-state.  The technology to...

WATCH Featured Video: Flying Unleaded – AVweb

Aviation Consumer’s Rick Durden logged 3.3 hours on AOPA’s Beech C55 Baron burning G100UL on one engine and 100LL on the other. Other than slightly better performance from the engine on unleaded, it was a non-event. Durden and Aviation Consumer Editor-in-Chief Larry Anglisano debriefed the flight.

Exclusive: Electric plane, train and boat batteries get millions in DOE funds

A dozen teams nationwide are getting millions in Department of Energy funding to develop batteries for electric regional aircraft, trains and ships. Why it matters: If any such moonshot is successful and scaleable, it could help curb the massive amounts of carbon emitted from heavy-duty transportation.Transportation accounts for nearly 30% of U.S. greenhouse gas emissions. About 13% of that share is from aircraft, shipping and rail. Details: The funds come by way of a DOE Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E) program that aims to electrify domestic flights carrying up to 100 people...

Universal Hydrogen Completes First Full Demonstration of AmpCart H2

In response to clear and urgent customer need, Universal Hydrogen demonstrates latest product built to decarbonize airport ground operations uniquely leveraging the company’s modular hydrogen fueling technology. Universal Hydrogen Co., a hydrogen fuel services provider that uses unique modular hydrogen delivery technology, today announced the first operational demonstration of the AmpCart H2 product developed in collaboration with Oshkosh AeroTech (formerly JBT AeroTech). On track for operational deployment by the end of 2024, the Universal Hydrogen demonstration unit of the future Oshkosh AeroTech’s AmpCart H2 marks a significant step in decarbonizing airport ground operations. The...

French firm powers up Integral electric aircraft

Toulouse, France-based aerospace company Aura Aero has powered on the first prototype of its Integral E electric aircraft. The training and aerobatic aircraft was powered on during an event at Toulouse, France-based aerospace company Aura Aero has powered on the first prototype of its Integral E electric aircraft. The training and aerobatic aircraft was powered on during an event at the company’s facility at Toulouse-Francazal airport last week. The power-on, first propeller revolution and Integral E’s roll-out represent a major milestone for Aura Aero. The prototype is...

Wisk and City of Sugar Land to bring autonomous air taxis to greater Houston Region

This initial partnership will lay the foundation and act as a gateway for the establishment of a larger network across the Greater Houston region. Under this new partnership, Wisk and Sugar Land will identify and assess a location at the Sugar Land Regional Airport for the development of vertiport infrastructure that would allow for Wisk’s autonomous air taxi operations. This initial partnership will lay the foundation and act as a gateway for the establishment of a larger network across the Greater Houston region.  Wisk CEO, Brian Yutko, said: “The Greater...

FAA’s Bold Move: New Rule Targets Carbon Emissions in U.S. Skies by 2028

Explore the FAA’s groundbreaking regulation mandating fuel-efficient technologies for large airplanes, aiming to reduce emissions and foster innovation in the U.S. aviation industry. In a world grappling with the urgent need to combat climate change, the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has taken a decisive step forward. Announcing a groundbreaking regulation that mandates fuel-efficient technologies for large airplanes, the FAA is steering the U.S. aviation industry toward a greener future. This rule, a critical component of the U.S. Climate Action Plan, is not just about innovation; it's a commitment to our planet's health and future generations.

An Australian Hydrogen-Powered VTOL Could Help Improve Firefighting

Adding autonomous capabilities to the world’s most efficient zero-emission aircraft could take firefighting to the next level. New-generation VTOLs (vertical takeoff and landing), whether purely electric or hybrid-electric, are not just about fighting climate change by lowering emission levels; their efficiency has the potential to drastically reshape certain types of operations and services, including firefighting. In Australia, this goal is particularly important, and an Aussie-made aircraft will help tackle bushfires more effectively. "A hi-tech flying bucket brigade" – this is how Mark York, the CEO of AMSL Aero, described...

Telefónica teams up with EHang on air mobility

Only $410,000 for Ehang’s EH216-S pilotless passenger-carrying electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft. Telefónica Tech has announced an alliance with China’s Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing Vehicles (eVTOL) company EHang which is launching its EH216-S model to the world on 1 April. The two companies are looking at what they dub the “low-altitude economy” and the vehicles would be used for the transport of passengers and cargo without a pilot on board in both Europe and Latin America.  Naturally, visitors to Mobile World Congress (MWC) can check out the partners....

Revolutionizing Air Travel: The Invisible Framework of Reduced Vertical Separation Minima (RVSM)

Discover the fascinating story of RVSM, a regulatory framework that has optimized airspace, enhanced fuel efficiency, and lowered carbon emissions in air travel. Reduced Vertical Separation Minima (RVSM) is an invisible framework that has revolutionized air travel by improving fuel efficiency and increasing airspace capacity. Learn about its genesis, impact, and the crucial role it plays in shaping the future of aviation. In the vast blue expanse above us, where the thin air meets technological prowess, lies an invisible yet crucial framework that ensures the safety and efficiency of...

Brits to be ferried by flying 200mph mini-chopper taxis in Dubai

FLYING taxis will no longer be a faraway concept but a reality in a holiday hotspot much loved by Brits. A Californian company has signed a deal with Dubai which could see tourists ferried across the UAE city by flying taxi from next year. The luxury means of travel will involve paying passengers booking their desired trip through an app and waiting at "vertiports", similar to today's airports, for a propeller-powered taxi to pick them up. Each VTOL aircraft will be able to carry four passengers and one pilot.

WATCH: NASA’S SABERS — Reimagining the use of Batteries for Next Generation Aircraft

NASA researchers are working to revolutionize air travel by building a battery that’s safe, sustainable, powerful and light enough to power electric airplanes and more. Solid-state Architecture Batteries for Enhanced Rechargeability and Safety or SABERS research is supported by NASA's Convergent Aeronautics Solutions team, and is developing solid-state battery cells that are safer on aircraft for longer flights. Watch and learn more about SABERS. To learn more, visit nasa.gov/CAS.Follow along with the Transcript: 0:00 NASA's work to revolutionize the future of  aviation often starts with a "what if."  

Electric EEL Hybrid Plane Soars to New Heights: A Greener Future Takes Flight

Ampaire's Electric EEL hybrid plane achieves unprecedented endurance, signaling a greener future for aviation. The company envisions cleaner, quieter, and more affordable flights through hybrid electric technology. In an inspiring display of innovation and commitment to the environment, Ampaire's Electric EEL hybrid electric plane has set a new record for endurance, marking a significant milestone in the journey towards electrifying planes and reducing carbon pollution. The event took place on February 15, 2024. A Groundbreaking Achievement Ampaire's Electric EEL, a trailblazer in the field of hybrid electric...

Swiss EV entrepreneur joins Aerovolt

London-based start-up Aerovolt has appointed Swiss electric vehicle charging infrastructure pioneer François Randin to its board of directors Aerovolt is currently building the world’s first charging network for electric aircraft. The company says that it was obvious that it should join forces with François Randin, who designed and launched the very first charging station for electric aircraft, to develop solutions for more sustainable aviation. Prior to pioneering the electric aviation market, Randin was founder and CEO of two electric mobility start-ups, both of which were bought by blue chip companies. Founded in 2009, and...

From ARK to the Skies: Cathie Wood’s Big Bet on Flying Taxi Startups

In the investment world, few names carry as much weight as Cathie Wood. Renowned for her visionary strategies and keen eye for disruptive technologies, Wood’s Ark Investments has made waves with her recent investments in the electric aviation sector. Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR), an electric aircraft developer backed by industry heavyweights Boeing and United Airlines, saw a surge in interest after Wood's investment of over $30 million in August.1 Archer develops electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for urban landscapes with the purpose of establishing a...

Electra.aero and Surf Air Mobility Will Operate and Lease Hybrid-Electric Aircraft

Green regional air mobility provider Surf Air Mobility is joining forces with Electra.aero, the manufacturer of a nine-seat, hybrid-electric short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) design. A bilateral agreement between the two firms announced Thursday seeks to bring Electra’s eSTOL to market by leveraging Surf Air’s on-demand air mobility platform and Aircraft-as-a-Service (ACaaS) leasing program for operators. Surf Air also secured preferred delivery positions for 90 Electra aircraft. The manufacturer’s eSTOL design uses a distinctive blown-lift propulsion system. According to Electra, this allows the aircraft to take...

Sirius Aviation AG Partners with India’s MEHAIR, Securing 100 Hydrogen VTOL Jet Orders

Pioneering Swiss aerospace company, Sirius Aviation AG, proudly announces an historic partnership with MEHAIR, India’s premier seaplane operator, to secure 50 orders of the Sirius Millennium Jet. This landmark agreement includes 50 firm orders, with an option to add 50 more, totaling approximately $400 million in value. The Sirius Jet, the world's first hydrogen-powered, zero-emissions, vertical takeoff and landing (VTOL) aircraft, features a high-speed capability, quieter ducted fan jets, and an innovative hydrogen powertrain. This state-of-the-art jet boasts an exceptional range of 1150 miles– eight times that of traditional eVTOLs, and an impressive speed...

Glasgow Airport says infrastructure to support zero-emission flight could be in place as early as 2027

Attendees at the Glasgow Airport Hydrogen Innovation Hub summit held on Thursday 08 February heard that the infrastructure needed to support zero-emission flight could be in place as early as 2027. The first-of-its-kind aviation hydrogen summit, held at the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland (NMIS), brought sector leaders in aviation, finance, aerospace, renewables and engineering from across the world together with academia and government.A consortium led by Glasgow Airport and net zero consulting co-developer Ikigai Group was set up in May last year thanks to funding from the Scottish Government’s £7-million Hydrogen Innovation...

Asia Well Placed For Leading Role in Advanced Air Mobility

Across the Asia-Pacific rim, Japan, South Korea, China, Singapore, Indonesia, India, Australia, and New Zealand all have voiced plans for new eVTOL services. Multiple projects across Japan, South Korea, China, Singapore, Indonesia, India, Australia, and New Zealand are laying the groundwork for the wider Asia-Pacific region to stand at the forefront of new advanced air mobility (AAM) services. Often benefitting from strong government support, eVTOL aircraft manufacturers, including Embraer spin-off Eve Air Mobility and Supernal, are stepping up work with local partners to establish air taxi and other public service applications to begin...

Mystery company seeks to build Florida hybrid electric plane facility with 1,500 workers

“Project Louis is in early-stage development of a hybrid electric two seat plane for training and are planning for commercial use additional models.” By 2030, a mystery company wants to open a major manufacturing facility employing 1,500 workers at an undisclosed Florida location and start building about 150 hybrid electric planes per year, Space Florida agenda records show. This unnamed company — which bears the secretive code name Project Louis — seeks conduit financing to build and equip the future 500,000-square-foot electric-plane factory, which would have airport runway access.

United Adds New Corporate Partners to Sustainable Flight Fund That Now Exceeds $200 Million

United today announced that Aircastle (a Marubeni & Mizuho Leasing Company), Air New Zealand, Embraer, Google, HIS, Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking, Safran Corporate Ventures, and Technip Energies are now among the 22 corporate partners that make up the airline's The United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight FundSM, a first-of-its kind effort to reduce emissions and drive production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through investments in startups. These corporate partners make up all parts of the aviation supply chain – airlines, aircraft and engine manufacturers, fuel producers, engineering and technology experts,...

VIDEO: Will Cambodia’s Newest Airport be the Greenest in the World?

Techo International Airport in Cambodia is hoping to become one of the greenest airports in the world. In Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, Foster + Partners is making progress on its Techo International Airport masterplan, releasing new CGIs of the project.  Inspired by Cambodia’s history and built heritage, the site is aesthetically pleasing and responds to the tropical climate. A vast roof canopy stretches from the drop-off to the airside, providing shelter from the heat. The roof features a steel grid shell, with a reactive screen to filter out daylight. 

2024 Airport Business Projects of the Year: SYR Glycol Recycling Facility

A new glycol collection and recycling facility at Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) is using a “full cycle” approach and a technological first to create environmental… A new glycol collection and recycling facility at Syracuse Hancock International Airport (SYR) is using a “full cycle” approach and a technological first to create environmental and financial benefits on-airport. Aeromag, a company specializing in deicing aircraft and recycling glycol (the main component in aircraft deicing fluid), is the owner and operator of the recycling facility. The company invested more than $19.4 million in...

“Air taxi” start-up expects to be flying from Santa Monica Airport by 2025

An electric aircraft start-up company has announced it will begin the development of infrastructure at Santa Monica Municipal Airport Archer Aviation, an electric aircraft start-up company, has announced a partnership with Atlantic Aviation and together the two companies will begin the development of electric aircraft infrastructure at Atlantic’s existing assets, including Santa Monica Municipal Airport (SMO). San Jose-based Archer has been developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft since 2018 and Texas-based Atlantic is a leading fixed-base operator (FBO) network and aviation services provider. With their combined resources, they...

Velocys Raises $40 Million in Funding for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Technology

Many companies are developing electric and hybrid aircraft as the aviation industry faces the critical challenge of reducing its carbon footprint. Although new aircraft can reduce carbon dioxide emissions, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) offer a near-term solution for cleaner skies.  In a recent boost to the green aviation fuel industry, Velocys secured $40 million in funding from a consortium of growth investors. The UK-based firm is a pioneer in SAF development by pushing its technology towards broader adoption and potentially revolutionizing air travel.Traditional jet fuel contributes to climate change...

Dubai to launch eVTOL taxi service in 2026

An agreement between Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA), Skyports and Joby gives the former exclusive rights to build and operate vertiports in Dubai, and the latter the exclusive right to operate air taxis in Dubai for six years. The partnership could see services start as early as next year, making Dubai the first place to host a commercial, city-wide electric air taxi service. Under the agreement with Dubai’s RTA, Joby will manufacture, certify and operate eVTOL...

Farm Waste to Fuel: The Game-Changer in Aviation Pollution

Jet Zero Australia and LanzaJet aim to convert agricultural waste into jet fuel, reducing carbon emissions and transforming the aviation industry. This innovative approach could revolutionize the fuel source for airports in Cairns and Townsville. In a remarkable turn of events, North Queensland farms are poised to become an unexpected ally in the fight against airplane pollution. Companies Jet Zero Australia and LanzaJet have announced plans to convert agricultural waste into jet fuel at a facility in Townsville, a development that could significantly reduce carbon emissions in the aviation industry.The collaboration between Jet...

How Ground Handlers are Contributing to Aviation’s Sustainability

In the Asia-Pacific region, and around the world, ground service providers are taking steps to reduce their environmental impact while increasing operational efficiencies. Sustainability is an important subject in the aircraft ground handling industry. As a result, ground handling companies are increasingly promoting or being involved in sustainability initiatives. Across the Asia Pacific region, there are many leading examples of sustainability projects being implemented. There are multiple parties leading sustainability initiatives in aircraft ground handling. This varies from airport to airport, but in general it is the...

UPCOMING EVENTS

ECO FINANCE

Biden’s NASA FY 2025 Budget Supports US Moon Mission, Climate Leadership

The Biden-Harris Administration has unveiled the President's Budget for Fiscal Year 2025, which allocates funding to support various endeavors, including NASA's space exploration and climate research efforts. ... Funding for Climate Science, Space Tech, STEM, and More. ... The budget allocates funds for missions and activities in climate science that aim to advance Earth systems science and increase accessibility to climate data. These efforts seek to mitigate natural hazards, support climate action, and manage natural resources more effectively. ... The budget also emphasizes support for the aeronautics program, with investments to develop hybrid-electric jet engines and lightweight aircraft structures. These advancements are expected to pave the way for more efficient and environmentally friendly commercial airliners...

Decarbonizing aviation attracts venture capital

Since 2016, some $2.4 billion worth of venture capital flowed to companies developing electric aviation and other air travel decarbonization technologies with a strong start in investment volume in 2024, according to Dealroom.co, a Dutch data and intelligence firm. The segment had a strong start in 2024, noted Dealroom.co senior analyst Lorenzo Chiavarini. “Aviation is one of the segments where we still don’t have a clear winning technology path to decarbonization to reach 2050 net-zero targets,” he told pv magazine. “In my assessment, it could be a threat or opportunity, either we don’t hit the targets, or we hit the targets thanks to huge investments and technological advances. A third option is we hit the targets thanks to massive social change. That is, flying becomes something we only do if there is no other alternative. So, if we want people to fly, and limit climate disruption and biodiversity collapse, we need to get serious about decarbonizing aviation now.”

Beyond Aero Raises $24M, Pioneers Hydrogen-Powered Flight in France with CEO Eloa Guillotin at Helm

On a groundbreaking day in Southern France, Beyond Aero, a visionary French startup, embarked on a journey to transform the aviation industry. Led by the ambitious 27-year-old CEO, Eloa Guillotin, the company successfully conducted the first test flight of a hydrogen-electric plane, signaling a major leap towards decarbonizing private aviation. This remarkable feat was supported by a robust $24 million funding, with a significant seed round led by Initialized, positioning Beyond Aero at the forefront of eco-friendly aviation technology.

£360 million to boost British manufacturing and R&D

... As part of the investments announced today, almost £200 million of joint government and industry funding is also going to aerospace R&D projects, supporting the development of energy efficient and zero-carbon aircraft technology and accelerating the transition to net zero aviation. This includes £40 million which is going towards a project developing zero-carbon aircraft engine technology - led by Cambridge-based Marshall Group - and around £96 million is being invested in Airbus-led projects. Airbus, which manufactures almost all its aircraft wings in the UK bringing in jobs and investment to the UK economy – is developing more efficient wing designs and increasing carbon fibre production rates for wing components, reducing CO2 emissions and fuel burn. Funding for these projects will be delivered through the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) programme. It was also confirmed today that the £975 million in aerospace funding over five years from 2025, announced at Autumn Statement, will be allocated to the ATI programme. The programme has facilitated over £3.6 billion of joint government and industry R&D investment to date - providing industry with continued confidence and security to invest in the UK for the long term - and includes R&D support for small businesses through the ATI SME competition.

EIB Spearheads Green Financing by Purchasing Mezzanine Debt to Unlock €1.6 Billion for Eco Projects

The European Investment Bank is paving the way for a greener future with its groundbreaking venture in green financing, doubling funds for sustainable projects and setting a new benchmark for environmental investments. The European Investment Bank (EIB) is setting a new precedent in green financing by embarking on an ambitious venture to purchase mezzanine debt from banks. This initiative, aimed at mobilizing €1.6 billion for environmental projects, involves the use of synthetic risk transfers to facilitate greater investment in areas that are often overlooked due to financial constraints. Nicolas Mardam-Bey, a prominent loan officer at the EIB, underscored the potential of this strategy to significantly amplify the funds directed towards sustainable development across Europe. Revolutionizing Green Financing At the heart of this innovative financial mechanism is a partnership between the EIB and various European banks. By engaging in synthetic risk transfers, banks have the opportunity to sell the second-loss portions of their loan portfolios to the EIB at yields more favorable than those typically demanded by the market. This arrangement is made possible through a counter-guarantee provided by the European Commission, which significantly reduces the risk for the EIB and, by extension, encourages banks to allocate more resources to green projects. Currently, discussions are underway with a German bank to further expand the reach of this initiative. Empowering Sustainable Projects The process involves the creation of tranches from...

Vertical gets $10 million UK state eVTOL funding, reflecting big national stakes in eVTOL activity

Air taxi developer Vertical gets $10.5 million UK state subsidy, reflecting the high national economic stakes in eVTOL economic activity. Emerging electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft used in air taxi transportation will generate billions of dollars in new activity – a major new boost to national economies that governments don’t want foreign companies to dominate. The most recent example of that defensive reflex of local aerial markets comes from the UK, where national hero Vertical Aerospace has received an additional $10.5 million in state support. Vertical announced it has gotten $10 million in eVTOL financing from the UK government’s Aerospace Technology Institute Programme (ATI). The grant, which is specifically earmarked for further development of lighter and quieter propellers for its VX4 air taxi, brings total UK state aid to the firm to $47 million – not a bad chunk of taxpayer change for a public company traded on NASDAQ. But despite the reliance of US rivals like Archer and Joby on private sector funding to develop their eVTOLs toward air taxi launches anticipated in 2025, Vertical  is far from the only next-generation aircraft company being backed up by old school subsidies.  For starters, competitors in Europe have benefitted from direct or bank-shot aid from national and European Union government bodies. EHang has also received both financing and other forms of support from various government agencies in China, while aerial startups in Japan have gotten the occasional state yen or two.

Chooose and BP Join Forces to Propel Airlines Towards a Greener Horizon

Discover how Chooose and BP are collaborating to transform the aviation industry with innovative digital solutions and sustainable aviation fuel programs. Imagine boarding a flight with the comforting knowledge that your journey contributes minimally to the planet's carbon footprint. This vision is edging closer to reality as Chooose, a vanguard in climate technology, collaborates with energy titan BP to steer the aviation industry towards sustainable horizons. With a robust investment reportedly surpassing $20 million, this partnership is set to revolutionize how airlines tackle their carbon emissions through the innovative use of digital solutions and sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) programs. A Leap Towards Sustainable Skies The aviation sector, long scrutinized for its environmental impact, stands at a pivotal juncture. The collaboration between Chooose and BP marks a significant stride in addressing this challenge. Joseph Beaudin, Chooose's Chief Customer Officer, underscores the synergy of BP's lower carbon products with Chooose's digital platform as a game-changer. This integration aims to widen the spectrum of compliance-related and voluntary products, offering airlines a tangible path to reducing their carbon footprint. The essence of this partnership lies in its capacity to make sustainable aviation fuel more accessible and manageable for airlines, thereby fostering a greener future for air travel. Empowering Airlines, Empowering the Planet The potential of SAF in curbing aviation-related emissions cannot be overstated. Andreea Moyes, Air BP's Sustainability Senior Manager, highlights the partnership's pivotal role in bolstering...

From ARK to the Skies: Cathie Wood’s Big Bet on Flying Taxi Startups

In the investment world, few names carry as much weight as Cathie Wood. Renowned for her visionary strategies and keen eye for disruptive technologies, Wood’s Ark Investments has made waves with her recent investments in the electric aviation sector. Archer Aviation (NYSE: ACHR), an electric aircraft developer backed by industry heavyweights Boeing and United Airlines, saw a surge in interest after Wood's investment of over $30 million in August.1 Archer develops electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft for urban landscapes with the purpose of establishing a reliable air taxi service. Last summer, the Federal Aviation Administration issued the company's flagship Midnight eVTOL a Special Airworthiness Certificate, allowing it to begin test flights. Archer intends to commence piloted "for credit" flight testing in early 2024 with the goal of obtaining FAA Type Certification. In addition to her investment in Archer Aviation, Wood has also set her sights on Joby Aviation, a leader in the race to develop all-electric air taxis. Through her company Ark Invest, Wood acquired nearly $2 million worth of shares in Joby Aviation (NYSE: JOBY), recognizing the company's potential to transform urban mobility with its innovative technology. Joby Aviation just announced a significant deal with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA) to introduce air taxi services in the Emirate by early 2026, with initial operations targeted for 2025. This exclusive agreement, signed at the World Governments...

United Adds New Corporate Partners to Sustainable Flight Fund That Now Exceeds $200 Million

United today announced that Aircastle (a Marubeni & Mizuho Leasing Company), Air New Zealand, Embraer, Google, HIS, Natixis Corporate & Investment Banking, Safran Corporate Ventures, and Technip Energies are now among the 22 corporate partners that make up the airline's The United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight FundSM, a first-of-its kind effort to reduce emissions and drive production of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through investments in startups. These corporate partners make up all parts of the aviation supply chain – airlines, aircraft and engine manufacturers, fuel producers, engineering and technology experts, financiers, travel management and more – and have now committed more than $200 million while collaborating to provide strategic expertise to help the Fund's portfolio companies reach commercialization. Since its inception in February 2023, the Fund remains aviation's first and only venture fund backed by a broad limited partner base and created to identify and support startups advancing feedstock and technology development focused on increasing the supply of SAF. The airline has included a way for everyday consumers to participate as well. Anyone using United.com or the United app has an option to contribute to supplement United's investment in the UAV Sustainable Flight FundSM before check-out. Users have the choice to contribute $1, $3.50 or $7.00.1 Continuing in the effort toward climate transparency for our customers, United also now shows an estimated carbon emissions for flights booked through United.com or the United app. In less than 12 months, more than 115,000 people have contributed nearly $500,000 since February...

Velocys Raises $40 Million in Funding for Sustainable Aviation Fuel Technology

Many companies are developing electric and hybrid aircraft as the aviation industry faces the critical challenge of reducing its carbon footprint. Although new aircraft can reduce carbon dioxide emissions, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) offer a near-term solution for cleaner skies.  In a recent boost to the green aviation fuel industry, Velocys secured $40 million in funding from a consortium of growth investors. The UK-based firm is a pioneer in SAF development by pushing its technology towards broader adoption and potentially revolutionizing air travel.Traditional jet fuel contributes to climate change since it is derived from crude oil, which releases harmful greenhouse gases such as carbon dioxide, nitrogen oxides, and methane. On the other hand, sustainable aviation fuel is produced from sustainable sources like biomass, recycled waste, or even captured carbon dioxide, offering a significantly lower carbon footprint of up to 80% less than conventional fuel.  This makes it a crucial player in the fight against aviation's environmental impact. Velocys stands out with its innovative Fischer-Tropsch process and proprietary micro-channel reactor technology. This unique combination allows them to convert diverse feedstocks – from household waste to green hydrogen and drop-in SAF compatible with existing aircraft engines. Unlike other SAF processes, Velocys' technology boasts flexibility and scalability, making it adaptable to various feedstock options and production capacities. May Liew, GenZero's Investment Director, said: "Decarbonising the global aviation industry will require innovative solutions that...

Bill Gates Backs The Future Of Aviation: Breakthrough Energy Ventures Invests $107 Million In Electric Airplane Firm

Business magnate Bill Gates and Breakthrough Energy Ventures (BEV) took the next step toward net-zero aviation by investing $107 million in Heart Aerospace. The Swedish hybrid airplane manufacturer is advancing its ES-30 hybrid-electric airplane toward commercial viability. The backing of prominent investors, including Gates, underscores the confidence in the ES-30 as a means of addressing the challenges facing the air travel industry. This boost in funding comes as the aviation industry increasingly commits to achieving net zero emissions by 2050. Heart Aerospace Co-Founder and CEO Anders Forslund emphasized the pivotal role of the ES-30 in the emissions goal. "The industry has committed to net zero emissions by 2050," Forslund said in a statement. "The only way forward is to decouple the tremendous growth in aviation from its emissions, and we believe ES-30 is the first stepping stone." Heart Aerospace’s Series B funding round saw new investors like Danish Sagitta Ventures joining the ranks, alongside established backers such as BEV led by Gates. The investment highlights Gates’s dedication to supporting innovative technologies that can revolutionize industries and address pressing global issues like climate change. Carmichael Roberts, co-leader of BEV's investment committee, emphasized the transformative potential of electric aircraft in reducing industry emissions, reflecting Gates’s vision for sustainable aviation solutions. Heart Aerospace’s ES-30, designed to minimize emissions, reduce noise pollution and lower operating costs, represents a significant step forward in sustainable air travel. With...

Heart Aerospace raises US$107 million in Series B funding

Swedish hybrid-electric airplane maker, Heart Aerospace, has raised a total of US$107 million in Series B funding, bringing total financing to US$145 million. The company says this represents a significant landmark in its goal of enabling more sustainable regional air travel with its ES-30 aircraft.Among the new investors is Sagitta Ventures, a Danish investor focused on early-stage companies. Other investors include Air Canada, Breakthrough Energy Ventures, European Innovation Council Fund, EQT Ventures, Lowercarbon Capital, Norrsken VC, United Airlines, and Y Combinator. Heart Aerospace intends to use the funds to further build its business and make progress toward type certification of the company’s first hybrid-electric regional airplane, designed for a seating capacity of 30 passengers. The ES-30 is currently the only clean sheet hybrid-electric airplane of its size with an active type certification application with the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). The focus in the upcoming year will be on the development of Heart Aerospace’s hybrid- electric powertrain.

Cosmic Secures Seed Funds For Electric Regional Airliner

U.S.-European startup Cosmic Aerospace has raised $4.5 million in seed financing to progress development of a 24-passenger all-electric regional aircraft. The funding will be used to build a ground demonstrator of the wing and embedded propulsion that is key to the aircraft’s targeted 1,000 km (623 mi.) range on batteries. The seed round takes the total raised since Denver-based Cosmic was founded in 2021 to $6 million. The initial funding was used to build and ground test a full-scale prototype of the startup’s electric jet engine. A total of 32 of these 40-50 cm-dia. (16-20 in.) engines will be embedded into the Skylark’s long-span wing, reducing induced drag and structural weight, and enabling longer range. “We wanted to test the engine as soon as possible and feed the results back into the design of the aircraft,” Cosmic co-founder and CEO Christopher Chahine says. “We conducted full-power static ground tests to the engine’s limits to evaluate thrust performance. The tests were successful.”The next step is to mature the aerodynamic and structural design of the wing with its integrated propulsion system. Embedding the engines results in a deeper wing box, which enables a longer wing, but causes a stronger coupling between aerodynamics and propulsion. “We will do aerodynamic detail design. There are a lot of interactions. These are new challenges, but they are all tractable,” Chahine says. With a 36-m (118-ft.) span, the Skylark can...

EU targets for greener flights at risk amid lack of investment

In a rare show of unity, environmental organisations and oil companies have both warned that the EU’s targets for green jet fuels are in danger of being missed as investment into the production of synthetic fuels is so far not materialising. As part of its flagship climate package “Fit for 55”, the EU last year adopted “ReFuelEU aviation”, a law that aims to reduce the climate impact of flights. The new regulation sets quotas for the use of so-called sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), an increasing share of which will be blended into the kerosene used at EU airports. The law will take effect in 2025, when 2% of the fuel mix must be from sustainable sources, growing to 20% in 2035 and reaching 70% in 2050. Among the green fuels used are fuels based on used cooking oil, such as frying fat collected after use and processed. The resulting liquid is considered an “advanced” biofuel, which is eligible for meeting the EU’s SAF targets. As the availability of such waste materials is limited, targets also include mandates for so-called e-fuels – synthetic fuels produced from hydrogen, which in the long-term are expected to be available at a larger scale. However, investments into the production of e-fuels are not yet materialising, environmental NGO Transport & Environment (T&E) warned in a report published on Wednesday (24 January). While there are plans for 25 industry-scale production sites for e-kerosene within the EU, Iceland and Norway, “none of the major projects have reached final investment decision yet,”...

Flying Vehicle Company Gets $50M More Funding

Vertical Aerospace is close to completion of its second-generation, full-scale piloted VX4 prototype flying vehicle. Vertical Aerospace, an eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) vehicle maker, has received additional funding of $50 million. The funding came from Stephen Fitzpatrick, the company founder and CEO. Vertical is nearing the completion of its second-generation, full-scale piloted VX4 prototype at GKN Aerospace’s Global Technology Center in the U.K. “Since founding Vertical Aerospace in 2016, I have continued to believe in the enormous potential the company has to pioneer zero carbon aviation, “said Fitzpatrick. “The company has achieved significant technical progress both in its prototype program and its certification plans in 2023, that I believe is not reflected in our share price. Given the success I have seen in the past 12 months, I am more confident than ever in our world-class team, and I am delighted to further support the company with additional funding.” “Fitzpatrick will commit an initial tranche of $25 million, which is expected to close by March 2024, for a mixture of ordinary shares at $10 per share and warrants with a $5 exercise price, and a second tranche of $25 million by 31 July 2024 for ordinary shares at a price per share to be determined,” states the funding announcement. Vertical Aerospace has flown its electric aircraft uncrewed at Cotswold Airport in Kemble U.K.

Northvolt secures a landmark $5 billion to make batteries

Swedish lithium-ion battery producer Northvolt has raised $5 billion, firmly locking in its position as Europe’s best-funded startup and recipient of the largest-ever green loan from the EU. The company is adding that cash to its pot of $13 billion in equity and debt to expand operations across the world. Northvolt is looking to build and expand battery plants across Sweden, Poland, Germany, the United States, and Canada. The $5 billion will be used to expand its first cell production site in Sweden currently under construction and expand its recycling plants. Group CEO Peter Carlsson described the deal as “an important step in Europe’s energy transition.” The new loan comes from the backing of 23 commercial banks, as well as the European Investment Bank and the Nordic Investment Bank. Northvolt recently locked in European approval for a €902 million ($986 million) subsidy from the German government to build its gigafactory there. The European Commission gave the new factory the stamp of approval, adding that it will boost the bloc’s clean energy future and help curb its dependency on China, according to a statement. Northvolt is also building a plant in Quebec, on the south shore of Montreal, with the Quebec government contributing $2.9 billion and the federal government contributing $4.4 billion. Northvolt’s order book is looking pretty full, too, with more than $55 billion from automakers including BMW, Volvo, Scania, and Volkswagen. The company is reportedly preparing for an initial public offering that could value it at more than $20...

Finnish Lygg partners with Electra in a billion-euro deal to revolutionize sustainable air travel – ArcticStartup

Vantaa-based company Lygg has inked a monumental billion-euro deal with the U.S.-based hybrid aircraft manufacturer, Electra. This collaboration signals a pivotal stride towards transforming air travel into a more eco-friendly and efficient mode of transportation. The partnership paves the way for the introduction of up to 300 hybrid aircraft by 2028. These cutting-edge aircraft, designed by Electra, will be integrated into Lygg’s operational model, promising direct connections and a remarkable reduction in carbon emissions by utilizing renewable Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). With this landmark agreement, Lygg secures the exclusive right to offer its operators the purchase of 150 Electra hybrid planes initially, with an option for an additional 150, culminating in a colossal €1 billion deal. The plan is to introduce these aircraft through the innovative Hybrid as a Service (HaaS) model, providing operators with financial support and a profitable business structure. “We are primarily facilitators in this scenario, much like Uber once offered cars to Southeast Asian taxi drivers. The agreement combines Electra’s revolutionary, already in use technology with Lygg’s equally pioneering business model. Having followed Electra for a long time, we are convinced that they will be one of the leaders in this market. We, in turn, can offer a direct path to commercial business for their planes through our corporate customer network and operators,” says Lygg’s CEO Roope Kekäläinen.

Microsoft’s climate fund backs sustainable jet fuel company Dimensional Energy | TechCrunch

The increasing need to reduce carbon emissions drives many industries, including airlines and transportation, to seek sustainable alternatives to meet emission reduction targets and fulfill corporate social responsibility commitments. One of the solutions is sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to traditional jet fuel. An Ithaca, New York-based company called Dimensional Energy produces sustainable aviation fuel from carbon dioxide emissions and water, and the company said today it has closed $20 million in a Series A round to ramp up renewable jet fuel production. Envisioning Partners led the latest funding, which brings its total raised to $28 million, with strategic participation from investors including United Airlines’ sustainable flight fund, Microsoft’s climate innovation fund, RockCreek’s smart aviation futures fund, DSC Investment, Delek US, New York Ventures and existing investors like Elemental Excelerator and Chloe Capital. “ The extraction and production of hydrocarbons has resulted in not only climate change but the displacement of indigenous people globally and myriad environmental catastrophes,” Dimensional Energy founder and CEO Jason Salfi told TechCrunch. “Dimensional Energy makes a replacement for oil from carbon dioxide and water. Dimensional is committed to sourcing feedstocks in balance with nature and communities where plants are built.”

U.S. Air Force Awards $37 Million to Piasecki Aircraft Corporation to Develop Next-Generation VTOLs and Hydrogen Propulsion Technologies

“The STRATFI program plays a critical role in advancing emerging American technologies and we are thrilled to receive this significant investment,” said John Piasecki, CEO of Piasecki Aircraft. “This new funding will allow us to demonstrate ARES’ unique tilt-duct configuration, which enables seamless transition between hover and fixed-wing forward flight — a technological leap that would address critical aerial challenges faced by the U.S. military. The STRATFI test program will also fund the demonstration of zero-emission hydrogen fuel cell propulsion technology for VTOLs, including our forthcoming PA-890 compound helicopter. Demonstration of the PA-890 would be a world-first for electric aviation and would usher in a new era of clean vertical flight.”

Spanish Start-up Crisalion Introduces Integrity eVTOL Aircraft | AIN

The aircraft will carry a single pilot and five passengers on flights of up to 100 km (63 miles) at a cruise speed of 180 km/h. According to Madrid-based Crisalion, it has raised just over $16 million and is preparing to start another funding round in the first quarter of 2024 with support from the BlueBull investment bank. The company says it envisions applications including air taxi flights, emergency medical services, cargo operations, and tourism.

‘Flying car’ company with South Carolina ties nets $83M funding boost

A Japan-based electric vertical takeoff and landing manufacturer with plans to open its U.S. headquarters in South Carolina has received…

Aerovy, an advanced air mobility software provider, completes $800,000 pre-seed funding round

Aerovy, a Purdue University-connected startup, has completed a round of funding and is expanding industry partnerships around the world. Aerovy develops cloud-based software solutions for the advanced air mobility, or AAM, sector, which includes electric-powered urban and regional aircraft...

Archer Aviation Secures Initial $1 Million Payment Through Air Force Contract – FLYING Magazine

The eVTOL aircraft manufacturer is working toward crewed flights of its air taxi with Air Force pilots in the coming months...

Hydrogen aviation startup ZeroAvia has raised funding that will allow it to certify its engine for flight

@axios on TwitterHydrogen aviation startup ZeroAvia has raised funding that will allow it to certify its engine for flight — a big step as the aviation sector looks to decarbonize. @katiefehren reports. Go deeper: https://t.co/cvDDEsWPY4

ZeroAvia completes another successful financing round led by Airbus and NEOM in Saudi Arabia

Hydrogen-electric plane developer ZeroAvia has snagged some additional financial security as it looks to continue development of its zero-emissions flight…

Volocopter Raises Additional USD 182 million in Second Signing of Series E Financing Round

eVTOL pioneer Volocopter shares financing update. 182 million US dollars raised in second Series E signing. NEOM and Gly Capital Management join as investors...

Delta Airlines will invest up to $200 million in Joby Aviation to create a ‘home-to-airport’ air taxi service

The companies aim to launch a service to transport passengers to a nearby airport from so-called ‘vertiports’ located throughout a city... Delta Airlines will invest $60 million in Joby Aviation, a leading electric air taxi startup, to create a “home-to-airport” service using the startup’s five-seat electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, the companies announced Tuesday. Delta said its investment in Joby could go as high as $200 million if the company hits certain milestones...

Terra Drone raises $70 million in Series B funding for UTM & UAM solutions

Drone and Urban Air Mobility (UAM) technology company Terra Drone Corporation announced today that it has raised $70 million (8 billion Japanese yen) in Series B funding with investments from Mitsui & Co., Ltd., SBI Investment Co., Ltd., Tokyu Land Corporation, Kyushu Electric Power T&D, and Seika C…

Skyports raises US$23 million in Series B funding round

Skyports, the electric air taxi infrastructure and drone services provider, has raised US$23 million in the first close of its Series B funding round.

URBAN AIR MOBILITY

Advanced Air Mobility: Legal Authorities and Issues to Consider for Operations

Advanced Air Mobility is an emerging aviation concept that will use new types of aircraft and technology, such as electric aircraft that can take off and land vertically. Before new aircraft can be used, the FAA needs to certify the designs and regulate how they are operated. In the near term, the FAA plans to use a combination of existing requirements—like air traffic control procedures—and temporary rules to ensure safe operations…

New Vertiports issue live

The new issue is FREE to read online What’s inside: INFRASTRUCTURE: Charging requirements and how suppliers intend to meet them PLANNING: How to rule out risk at every stage of your vertiports project DRONES: A ground-breaking UK project that will pave the way for eVTOLs DESIGN: What eVTOL developers want – and need – from vertiports SECURITY: Keeping passengers safe without compromising the premium vertiport experience SUSTAINABILITY: How developers are innovating to deliver truly environmentally friendly infrastructure And much, much more …

Greater Orlando Aviation Authority, Embry-Riddle Team Up to Explore Potential Advanced Air Mobility Impacts on Airspace

Researchers from Embry‑Riddle Aeronautical University are conducting a systematic evaluation of the impact of Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) vehicles, such as air taxis and autonomous air delivery aircraft, on airport operations at Orlando International Airport. The project, which uses advanced simulation modeling, is a collaboration between the Greater Orlando Aviation Authority (GOAA), which operates and manages Orlando International Airport; Embry‑Riddle’s College of Aviation; and the university’s Center for Aerospace Resilient Systems (CARS). The study will consider how to increase safety and air traffic flow efficiency with the integration of AAM aircraft into existing airport operations. “Through this research, Embry‑Riddle and GOAA aim to stay at the forefront of aviation innovation and to provide valuable insights for policymakers, industry leaders and other stakeholders regarding the future of aerial transportation,” said Dr. Victor Fraticelli Rivera and Dr. Robert Thomas, assistant professors of Aeronautical Science, in a joint statement. The collaboration with Embry‑Riddle, renowned for its aviation and aerospace higher education and research, is part of GOAA’s positioning as a leader in the adoption of AAM operations and as an AAM hub. “Our partnership with Embry‑Riddle symbolizes a commitment to solidify Florida as the leader in this emerging technology,” said Kevin J. Thibault, CEO of GOAA. “By using modeling software to explore how AAM vehicles may impact airport operations, along with learning more about how to integrate AAM into controlled airspace, we will be better prepared to begin testing for real-world scenarios.” The project will involve graduate students trained in the latest simulation modeling software and the technical support of CARS and its director of operations, Carlos Castro-Peña. Results of the project will be delivered to GOAA by the end of...

Telefónica teams up with EHang on air mobility

Only $410,000 for Ehang’s EH216-S pilotless passenger-carrying electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft. Telefónica Tech has announced an alliance with China’s Electric Vertical Take-off and Landing Vehicles (eVTOL) company EHang which is launching its EH216-S model to the world on 1 April. The two companies are looking at what they dub the “low-altitude economy” and the vehicles would be used for the transport of passengers and cargo without a pilot on board in both Europe and Latin America.  Naturally, visitors to Mobile World Congress (MWC) can check out the partners. EHang has chosen Telefónica Tech’s connectivity capabilities (5G and private networks) to enhance the security and efficiency of this type of mobility in both regions, and to continue expanding and exporting its smart solutions with unmanned aerial vehicles.  Both companies intend to implement use cases in Europe and Latin America around air mobility and solutions in areas as diverse as passenger transport, logistics, health services, emergency response and smart cities management. The “low-altitude economy” will no doubt spawn a new “low-altitude insurance sector”.   Telefónica and EHang will also collaborate on drone light shows with swarms of drones to digitalise and increase the sustainability of large-scale shows and events. The two companies have set out to develop connectivity solutions based on 5G mobile networks for the safe and efficient integration of drones and eVTOL aircraft with digital unmanned air traffic management systems (UTM and U-Space). Both companies rely on Telefónica Tech’s TheThinX laboratory and EHang’s Urban Air Mobility Centre in Europe, located in Spain.  5G does the work  Telefónica Tech believes 5G mobile networks have the capacity to guarantee reliable communications, low latency and high data transmission capacity...

Brits to be ferried by flying 200mph mini-chopper taxis in Dubai

FLYING taxis will no longer be a faraway concept but a reality in a holiday hotspot much loved by Brits. A Californian company has signed a deal with Dubai which could see tourists ferried across the UAE city by flying taxi from next year. The luxury means of travel will involve paying passengers booking their desired trip through an app and waiting at "vertiports", similar to today's airports, for a propeller-powered taxi to pick them up. Each VTOL aircraft will be able to carry four passengers and one pilot. Travelling at speeds of up to 198 miles per hour, customers will enjoy a unique view of Dubai while making their way to their destinations. According to Joby Aviation, the US company behind the all-electric aircraft, a flight from Dubai Airport to the glitzy tree-shaped island of Palm Jumeirah will take just 10 minutes by air taxi. By car, the same journey would take 45 minutes. Joby has signed a deal with Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority to launch air taxi operations in the UAE by early 2026, with its first service in 2025. The agreement gives the company exclusive rights to operate air taxis in Dubai for six years. Founder and CEO of Joby Aviation JoeBen Bevirt said it was an honour to partner with Dubai's government to demonstrate the value of sustainable air travel to the world. He said: "We're looking forward to delivering an incredible experience for residents and visitors to Dubai as early as 2025 and we're excited to be laying the groundwork for the expansion of our service across the wider UAE." The unique aircraft takes...

“Air taxi” start-up expects to be flying from Santa Monica Airport by 2025

An electric aircraft start-up company has announced it will begin the development of infrastructure at Santa Monica Municipal Airport Archer Aviation, an electric aircraft start-up company, has announced a partnership with Atlantic Aviation and together the two companies will begin the development of electric aircraft infrastructure at Atlantic’s existing assets, including Santa Monica Municipal Airport (SMO). San Jose-based Archer has been developing electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft since 2018 and Texas-based Atlantic is a leading fixed-base operator (FBO) network and aviation services provider. With their combined resources, they aim to establish an air taxi service that utilizes existing assets at specific locations. Early launch markets will focus on highly congested cities such as Los Angeles, New York and Miami. Atlantic and Archer anticipate launch of service across these initial locations in 2025 and subsequent expansion of services to other locations across Atlantic’s portfolio as availability of Archer’s eVTOL aircraft increases. “We’re building a vertical takeoff and landing aircraft, capable of carrying four passengers and a pilot plus a little bit of luggage and it’s 100% all-electric,” Nikhil Goel, Chief Commercial Officer at Archer Aviation says. “It can take off vertically, like a helicopter, but then it flies forward on a wing, just like a normal airplane. The reason that’s really important is that helicopters are very loud and they’re tremendously expensive. The aircraft we’re building, they’re 100 times quieter than helicopters,” he added. “They’re fully redundant, meaning there’s no part on the aircraft that if it were to fail would cause the flight to fail. And so that allows it to be much safer than a helicopter. And it’s very affordable. So a flight from Santa Monica to Malibu...

Dubai to launch eVTOL taxi service in 2026

An agreement between Dubai’s Road and Transport Authority (RTA), Skyports and Joby gives the former exclusive rights to build and operate vertiports in Dubai, and the latter the exclusive right to operate air taxis in Dubai for six years. The partnership could see services start as early as next year, making Dubai the first place to host a commercial, city-wide electric air taxi service. Under the agreement with Dubai’s RTA, Joby will manufacture, certify and operate eVTOL air taxis in Dubai. Skyports will design, construct, own and operate the vertiports used by Joby’s eVTOLs across the Emirate, while RTA will oversee and regulate the air taxi service. Joby’s five-seat battery-electric eVTOL aircraft can carry four passengers at speeds of up to 200mph (320km/h), and has a range of 150 miles (240 km). The California, USA-based company started piloted flight tests in October 2023. Joby is one of the furthest forward eVTOL aircraft developers, with the company’s aircraft being certified in the USA under regulator FAA’s Part 21-17B. The first Joby eVTOL aircraft are being built in Marina, California, which is increasing production capacity from 4 to up to 50 aircraft a year. The firm is also building a larger factory in Dayton, Ohio capable of manufacturing up to 500 aircraft a year that is expected to open in 2025. Joby has established a company in Dubai and plans to recruit locally for its operational team. The company will also consider localization of other global business activities in Dubai and across the region. JoeBen Bevirt, CEO and founder, Joby Aviation said, “Today’s landmark agreement delivers on all three...

Future of Aviation at Santa Monica’s Museum of Flying

Join Museum of Flying and Eco-Aviation Foundation for an in-person presentation by Miles Rogers, SVP of Marketing for Archer Aviation. Rogers will share about the fascinating world of electric air taxis and urban aerial mobility. Discover how these innovative technologies are shaping the future of transportation and revolutionizing the way we move around cities. The Aviation Innovation Series is a monthly lecture series hosted by Museum of Flying offering opportunities for aviation professionals and businesses to provide insight into the development of sustainable aircraft systems and technology, including EVTOL, VTOL, hydrogen electric aircraft, and carbon-free flying. RSVP today! https://www.eventbrite.com/e/talk-the-future-of-electric-vertical-aircraft-and-urban-aerial-mobility-tickets-820418873937?aff=oddtdtcreator

2 Flying Taxi Companies Get FAA OK for Maintenance

This lays the foundation for both electric aerial vehicle makers to perform maintenance, repair and overhaul services. Two eVTOL (electric vertical takeoff and landing) air taxi companies have received federal authorization to perform selective maintenance activities on their flying vehicles. Archer Aviation and Joby Aviation both received Part 145 certification from the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA), which lays the foundation for both electric aerial vehicle (EAV) makers to perform maintenance, repair and overhaul services on the flying taxis once they are certified for commercial operations. Archer and Joby are among the major flying taxi firms globally. “This is a major vote of confidence from the FAA on Archer’s promise and potential for operating a full-scale urban air mobility service in cities across the country,” said Adam Goldstein, founder and CEO of Archer. “As we continue to rapidly advance towards commercial operations, we will be working closely with the FAA and regulators around the world to ensure Archer’s aircraft are safe and ready to transform mobility, providing a sustainable, low noise and cost-competitive alternative to decongest our biggest cities.” Archer recently started construction of the first three of its flying taxi vehicles to be used for the federal approval process. The company is set to begin final assembly for the piloted EAVs, which are aimed at flight testing and subsequent uses in “for credit” flight testing with the FAA.Joby’s air taxi is designed to carry a pilot and four passengers and travel at speeds of up to 200 mph. There also are smaller EAVs being developed, such as those by Volocopter in Germany and EHang in China, both of which are designed to carry one or two people. In the case of EHang, the EAV is designed to fly pilotless.

Supernal debuts eVTOL product concept at CES 2024

Supernal has returned to the biggest consumer electronics show to unveil its latest pilot-plus-four concept, which will fly low altitude for up to 40 mile trips. The Hyundai business has drawn on automotive design. Hyundai Motor Group's Advanced Air Mobility business Supernal has unveiled S-A2, its electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle product concept at CES 2024. The pilot-plus-four-passenger vehicle marks the latest milestone in Supernal's roadmap to commercialize safe, efficient and affordable everyday passenger air travel. S-A2 builds on the company's vision concept, S-A1, which it debuted at CES 2020, bringing together the innovative aerospace engineering and Hyundai Motor Group automotive aesthetic design to create a new mode of transportation to get people in urban areas from point A to point B faster. Supernal will achieve commercial aviation safety levels and enable affordable manufacturing of its vehicles as it prepares to enter the market in 2028. "From the beginning, Supernal has been on a mission to create the right product and the right market at the right time," says Jaiwon Shin, president of Hyundai Motor Group and CEO of Supernal. "The unveiling of S-A2 demonstrates our unwavering commitment to deliver on that mission with a safe, efficient vehicle design that provides a clear path to market entry. By leveraging our talented 600-person team, the vast technical and business capabilities of Hyundai Motor Group and trusted aviation suppliers around the world, Supernal is ready to deliver a new era of flight." S-A2 is a V-tail aircraft designed to cruise 120 miles-per-hour at a 1,500-foot altitude to meet typical city operation needs of 25- to 40-mile trips, initially. It features a distributed electric propulsion architecture and has eight all-tilting rotors. At entry into service, Supernal's vehicle will operate as quietly as a dishwasher: 65 dB in vertical take-off and landing phases...

AFWERX Agility Prime program demonstrates mobile battery charging station for eVTOL aircraft

The AFWERX Agility Prime program, launched by the Air Force in April 2020, is partnering with the electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) commercial industry to develop a new class of air mobility systems. The program aims to test and accelerate the development of eVTOL aircraft, which can move people and things around in a more efficient and environmentally friendly way. One of the challenges of eVTOL aircraft is the battery management. To address this, the program recently received a demonstration of a mobile battery care station developed by Arctech Charge, a Utah-based company. The station, which was specifically designed to support eVTOL aircraft testing and operations, can provide fast and safe charging for up to 36 batteries at a time. The station’s battery charging bays are climate controlled and can offer two battery care profiles: one for extending battery life cycles and one for charging as quickly and safely as possible. Manti Gleason, the co-founder/CEO of Arctech Charge, said they focused on “mobility and safety” when developing the battery charging station, which is something the Agility Prime program managers insisted on with the project. “We can either prioritize faster battery turnover or focus on longevity for our battery fleet,” he said. “Our battery care profiles use dynamic charging to optimize the battery’s charge condition, ensuring that it meets mission operational needs while also extending its lifespan.” The station’s ability to provide optimal care for each battery will reduce the need for frequent battery replacements, which has the potential to save time and money for end users.

Hyundai Motor aims to open era of flying mobility

Korean auto giant focused on developing advanced air mobility with US unit Supernal. Flying cars have long been a fixture in science fiction movies. For Hyundai Motor Group, the vision of vehicles flying in the air is not just a whimsical idea anymore as the Korean auto giant appears determined to make them a reality in the near future. Supernal, Hyundai Motor Group’s US-based advanced air mobility company, is gearing up to showcase the life-size concept model of its electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicle, or eVTOL, at CES 2024 to be held at the Las Vegas Convention Center from Jan. 9 to 12. The AAM firm will present its vision and strategies at the world’s largest tech exhibition. Supernal is also building a vertiport exhibition outside the convention venue to offer visitors a chance to experience what it is like to ride the urban air mobility. Rooted in the word heliport, the term vertiport refers to an area built for eVTOL’s takeoff and landing. Supernal will present its vision and strategy to establish the ecosystem for AAM at CES including the operation of the eVTOL and potential flight networks and reveal which roles Hyundai Motor Group will play in its future road map.

Augusta Regional Airport and SRNL announce new partnership, new air taxis coming in 2026

Augusta Regional Airport and SRNL announced a new partnership and a plan was announced to offer air taxi services in Augusta in the next few years. During a press conference Thursday at the Georgia Cyber Center, the Augusta Regional Airport and the Savannah River National Lab announced a new partnership centered around emerging aerospace technologies. Once implemented, the two organizations will participate jointly in various research and resource initiatives, including funding opportunities for projects and joint utilization of facilities and airspace. "I commend the airport team for their forward-thinking partnership with the SRNL," said Augusta Mayor Garnett Johnson. "They continue to move Augusta and the CSRA forward in our sustainability efforts, both on the roadways and now in our airways. We look forward to future innovations and sustainability benefits that will evolve through this partnership."...

Wisk Partners with Sugar Land for Autonomous Air Taxi Vertiport in Texas

Autonomous flying taxis carrying passengers are expected to be winging their way across the skies above the greater Houston area within the next several years, as the result of a partnership between advanced air mobility (AAM) company Wisk and the city of Sugar Land, Texas. Under their agreement, Wisk and Sugar Land will work jointly to identify and assess a location at the Sugar Land Regional Airport to develop a vertiport for Wisk’s autonomous air taxi operations. Preliminary plans call for Wisk to establish a base of operations for electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft by the end of this decade...

Microweather Research Shines a Light on Advanced Air Mobility Safety Planning | MITRE

Drone and air taxi operations are scaling up across the globe. A MITRE-developed predictive capability will help safeguard these vehicles from a key hazard—the effects of microscale turbulence and other wind conditions. Imagine hopping on an electric air taxi to travel across town or having your pharmacy purchase delivered by drone. Plans for that future are well underway. But to enable it, factors affecting the safety of these and other advanced air mobility (AAM) operations must be understood. Key among them is the effect of extremely localized—or microscale—weather. In other words, what low-lying weather conditions could be dangerous for AAM vehicles as they take off and land near or within urban areas? Could a strong gust of wind push a vehicle into the side of a building? Could a small eddy force an air taxi to the ground? MITRE research is shedding light on this critical issue. ILLUMINATING MICROWEATHER’S COMPLEXITIES In traditional aviation, turbulence and wind shear—or the sudden variation of wind velocity or direction—are often contributing causes of accidents. “The same dangers lurk in the AAM arena, but they can be harder to predict and assess than at higher altitudes, where traditional aircraft fly,” says Mike Robinson, who leads MITRE’s portfolio of microweather research for the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA)...

Skyports and Bicester Motion unveil plans for UK’s first vertiport testbed for air taxi industry

Skyports Infrastructure (Skyports) has signed an agreement to develop the UK’s first vertiport testbed at Bicester Motion, Oxfordshire, the 444-acre estate dedicated to pioneering mobility technology, past, present and future. The new vertiport, which will include a compact 160 sq m passenger terminal, will be a critical facility for testing ground infrastructure and flight operations and will play a significant role in enabling the next generation of electric, low noise aviation in the UK...

Airbus reveals fully electric aircraft prototype

The two-tonne class CityAirbus, with a wing span of approximately 12m, is being developed to fly with 80km range and to reach a cruise speed of 120km/h, making it suited for operations in major cities for a variety of missions. The unveiling coincided with the opening of the new CityAirbus test centre in Donauwörth, which will be dedicated to testing systems for electric vertical takeoff and landing vehicles (eVTOL). The centre, which is part of Airbus’ ongoing and long-term investment in Advanced Air Mobility (AAM),

Korea aims to commercialize UAM by 2025

South Korea plans to operate an urban air mobility (UAM) service for Seoul and its surrounding areas by 2025, according to the country’s Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport (MOLIT) on Sunday. UAMs, which is still a novel concept, refers to the electric-powered vertical take-off and landing of small aircraft. They represent a new mode of transportation for logistics and people in the urban sky, commonly known as ‘flying taxis.’ ...

Ireland Eyes 2027 Launch for Pioneering Air Taxi Service, Boosting Urban Mobility

Ireland is positioning itself at the forefront of urban air mobility, with plans to introduce the country's first air taxi service by 2027. Engineers and scientists at the Future Mobility Campus Ireland (FMCI) in Shannon are collaborating with national and international partners to explore the use of drones for transporting people over urban areas. The Department of Transport has expressed its support for this innovative venture, highlighting a significant step towards enhancing Ireland's Innovative Air Mobility (IAM) industry. Innovative Air Mobility on the Horizon The concept of urban air taxis revolves around electric passenger drones that take off and land vertically from 'vertiports'. These would be strategically located much like taxi ranks, providing specific flight corridors between key locations. This initiative is part of a broader movement towards urban air mobility (UAM), which the EU's aviation agency, EASA, has been planning for years, proposing the world's first set of rules for drone passenger services in 2022. With international cities like Paris potentially debuting air taxi services as soon as this summer for the Olympics, Ireland's ambitions align with a global trend towards innovative transportation solutions...

Wisk and City of Sugar Land to bring autonomous air taxis to greater Houston Region

This initial partnership will lay the foundation and act as a gateway for the establishment of a larger network across the Greater Houston region. Under this new partnership, Wisk and Sugar Land will identify and assess a location at the Sugar Land Regional Airport for the development of vertiport infrastructure that would allow for Wisk’s autonomous air taxi operations. This initial partnership will lay the foundation and act as a gateway for the establishment of a larger network across the Greater Houston region.  Wisk CEO, Brian Yutko, said: “The Greater Houston area is experiencing some of the highest population growth in the country, which calls for new and efficient ways to move across the region. Sugar Land’s strategic location within the Greater Houston region, and its forward-thinking city leadership, make it an ideal partner for us and one that is uniquely positioned as an early leader in the launch of air taxi services. We look forward to working with Sugar Land, local ecosystem stakeholders, and the FAA on both ground and air infrastructure, as we bring autonomous air taxi services to the Greater Houston region.” Sugar Land city manager, Michael W. Goodrum, said: “Sugar Land is committed to blazing new trails, and I believe our relentless approach has caught the attention of the private sector as we’ve sought innovative solutions to mobility in our community through efforts like advanced air mobility. We are excited to partner with Wisk Aero on a new concept that just might change the way we travel — not only in our city but across the world. Sugar Land is a great place to start in the Houston region, because we want to be a city where innovation is second nature, where creativity...

Asia Well Placed For Leading Role in Advanced Air Mobility

Across the Asia-Pacific rim, Japan, South Korea, China, Singapore, Indonesia, India, Australia, and New Zealand all have voiced plans for new eVTOL services. Multiple projects across Japan, South Korea, China, Singapore, Indonesia, India, Australia, and New Zealand are laying the groundwork for the wider Asia-Pacific region to stand at the forefront of new advanced air mobility (AAM) services. Often benefitting from strong government support, eVTOL aircraft manufacturers, including Embraer spin-off Eve Air Mobility and Supernal, are stepping up work with local partners to establish air taxi and other public service applications to begin in the second half of this decade. The companies bill the all-electric aircraft as revolutionary not only in alleviating congestion on gridlocked roads in major cities but in terms of aviation's need to decarbonize. In some cases, the development of hybrid-electric vehicles would deliver longer-range and greater payload than eVTOLs, which generally carry no more than four passengers 100 or so miles on a single charge. Consultants at Singapore-based Alton Aviation closely track prospects in the AAM sector and believe the island state is well-placed to become an early adopter of eVTOL aircraft. Singapore officials have cooperated with several manufacturers including Eve, as well as Germany’s Volocopter and European aerospace giant Airbus, which is preparing to start flight testing a prototype of its four-passenger CityAirbus NextGen aircraft. Alton director Alan Lim also sees neighboring such as Malaysia, Thailand, and Vietnam as holding promise in Southeast Asia’s emerging AAM market.The more prominent eVTOL frontrunners, most notably Silicon Valley start-ups Joby and Archer, tell investors they remain on schedule to complete type certification of their eVTOL vehicles around the end of this year—in time for commercial flights to launch in 2025. Given that as recently as last...

Preparing for Advanced Air Mobility: Five leaders in the AAM field discuss issues such as charging, vertiports, and airspace integration with AIN.

The fast-emerging advanced air mobility sector is poised to bring eVTOL aircraft and other new technology to early adopter cities including Los Angeles, New York, Miami, Paris, and Singapore from 2025. AIN brought together experts from this exciting field to discuss what will be necessary to pave the way for new aircraft to enter commercial service and what this future might look like. Here are some highlights from their main conclusions.

EHang Begins Delivering Air Taxi to Customers Following Airworthiness Certification

American lawmakers and regulators have big plans for electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) air taxis. But China continues to look like it will be the first country in the world to introduce high-flying urban air mobility (UAM) services to the public. Chinese manufacturer EHang—which a few months ago became the first company to obtain type certification for an eVTOL air taxi design—said it has now obtained airworthiness approval for its self-flying EH216-S model, clearing the way for a commercial launch in the coming months. The firm also delivered its first air taxi to a customer: Eton, an intelligent aviation technology subsidiary of Guangzhou Development District Communications Investment Group Co. That company is managed by the local government of the Huangpu District in Guangzhou, where EHang is based. “Today, we have set another milestone with the first AC for pilotless passenger-carrying eVTOL aircraft and started commercial delivery of the certified EH216-S to our customer,” said Huazhi Hu, founder, chairman, and CEO of EHang. “In the near future, we anticipate an increasing number of aircraft rolling off from our production line to gradually fulfill our backlog orders, thereby serving more customers and passengers.”

Eve & Jeju Air Reveal eVTOL Concept Of Operations

United Airlines and Eve Air Mobility are partnering to offer eVTOL flights in San Francisco by 2026, joining other airlines investing in electric vertical takeoff aircraft for urban air mobility. Eve Air Mobility has also formed a partnership with South Korea's Jeju Air to develop a concept for the implementation of new modes of UAM transport in the country. Jeju Air plans to use Eve's eVTOL aircraft to better connect Jeju Island to its network, creating a more efficient and environmentally sustainable route. Back in June 2023, United Airlines and Eve Air Mobility announced their plan to offer eVTOL flights in San Francisco by 2026, joining a handful of other airlines around the world that have chosen to invest in electric vertical takeoff aircraft to ferry passengers within dense metropolitan environments. Another unique partnership was born on the 28th of November between Eve Air Mobility and South Korea’s largest low-cost carrier, Jeju Air. The two companies created a 'Concept of Operations.' This concept aims to create a robust understanding of South Korea’s future urban air mobility industry, referred to as UAM, and to create a robust plan for the implementation of new modes of UAM transport.

Bristow Places Deposit for Early Delivery of Five Electra eSTOLs – FLYING Magazine

Vertical flight solutions provider Bristow Group is looking to shorten the runway for short-hop advanced air mobility (AAM) flights. The Houston-based operator on Wednesday placed a deposit on early delivery positions for five hybrid-electric, ultra-short takeoff and landing (eSTOL) aircraft from manufacturer Electra.aero. The companies signed a memorandum of understanding for the preorder of up to 50 aircraft in 2021, and Bristow is expected to be Electra’s principal launch operational customer. “This cash deposit is a real show of confidence in our eSTOL aircraft and a validation of our development roadmap,” said John S. Langford, chair and CEO of Electra. “Bristow is a true AAM leader, and we look forward with anticipation to the future delivery of our aircraft to Bristow’s fleet.” Bristow will use the eSTOL aircraft to offer zero-emission, regional air mobility (RAM) passenger services, with routes spanning 50 to 500 sm (43 to 434 nm). The design can take off and land in locations as small as 300 by 100 feet—less than the size of an American football field—which opens up operations out of remote or underutilized airports.

Watch: Would you like to ride in my beautiful air taxi? Joby, Archer, Lilium, Eve, Bell Nexus, eHang and other eVTOL makers

It's an exciting time to be alive. The buzz is on around electric vertical take-off and landing (e-VTOL) aircraft., which can change the way we move from point A to B. Numerous players, including legacy aircraft makers and startups, are taking their ambition to new heights. eVTOL, powered by electrons instead of fossil fuel, flies like a plane and lands like a chopper. It's a new category of passenger aircraft, promising nthing less than a revolution in aviation. And it's about to hit a tipping point.

Mayor Eric Adams announces NYC’s plans to electrify heliport for eVTOL

The New York City Economic Development Conference (NYCEDC) hosted an event this week at the Downtown Manhattan Heliport (JRB), where Mayor Eric Adams announced the city’s plans to electrify the heliport in support of eVTOL operations. Joby and Volocopter performed back-to-back exhibition flights, and BETA Technologies showcased its mobile charging station. “By electrifying one of the most famous heliports in the world, New York is demonstrating global leadership in the adoption of electric air travel,” said Joby founder and CEO JoeBen Bevirt. “We plan to make quiet, emissions-free flight an affordable, everyday reality for New Yorkers, while significantly reducing the impact of helicopter noise.”

Horizon Aircraft study: Air taxis could help boost remote communities in Canada – Skies Mag

A nationwide study by Horizon Aircraft, a Canada-based hybrid electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aerial vehicles company, shows the launch of air taxi services could play a vital role in revitalizing rural communities. The research, which included the views of people living in remote communities, found two out of three (66 per cent) Canadians would welcome the use of air taxis to address negative issues associated with living in remote communities such as poor access to transport, isolation, and unreliable supplies of critical goods and medical supplies...

Wisk is 1st eVTOL Air Taxi Firm to Make Public Flights, Lilium Offers 1st eVTOL Aircraft for Private Purchase – CleanTechnica

This week’s eVTOL news features Wisk expanding AAM leadership. Wisk’s flying tests and public displays highlight the company’s commitment to the technological success of aircraft with a sustainable flare, and, ultimately, to the future. Wisk has a long history of flight testing, with over 1700 test flights. Wisk Aero has proven itself again as a leading Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) company...

Wisk progresses build of its first production prototype air taxi | Aerospace Testing International

The urban air taxi developer expects the first flight to take place next year. The Gen 6 version of the autonomous eVTOL aircraft will be the configuration that is type certified and is being built at its facility in Mountain View, California. The company expects to build several test aircraft...

SOLAR

Raleigh-Durham International Airport Embarks on a Sustainable Journey with Solar-Powered Parking

Imagine arriving at Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), where your search for parking leads you to Park Economy 3, a vast expanse now powered by the sun's relentless energy. This is not a glimpse into a distant, utopian future but the reality taking shape at RDU. The airport authority's decision to invest an additional $1 million in solar panel-equipped walkway roofs marks a significant step towards sustainability. This initiative, partly fueled by a federal tax credit, is set to transform the airport's largest remote parking lot into a beacon of renewable energy. A Bold Step Forward At the heart of this initiative lies the installation of solar panels covering 40% of the walkway canopy roof in Park Economy 3. This strategic move is not just about harnessing solar energy; it's about integrating sustainability into the very fabric of the airport's operations. The panels are expected to offset approximately 84% of the lot's annual energy usage, a testament to the potential of renewable energy in large-scale applications. With the federal tax credit covering around $462,000 of the costs, and the remaining investment poised to be recouped through energy savings within 11 years, RDU's venture into solar power is as economically viable as it is environmentally responsible. More Than Just Parking RDU's foray into solar energy extends beyond the pragmatic need to power parking lots. It reflects a broader commitment to...

VIDEO: Will Cambodia’s Newest Airport be the Greenest in the World?

Techo International Airport in Cambodia is hoping to become one of the greenest airports in the world. In Phnom Penh, Cambodia’s capital, Foster + Partners is making progress on its Techo International Airport masterplan, releasing new CGIs of the project.  Inspired by Cambodia’s history and built heritage, the site is aesthetically pleasing and responds to the tropical climate. A vast roof canopy stretches from the drop-off to the airside, providing shelter from the heat. The roof features a steel grid shell, with a reactive screen to filter out daylight.  This roof, supported by structural trees spanning 36 metres, is “an expression of lightness and inherent modularity, serving as a symbolic gateway for every traveller’s journey,” according to Nikolai Malsch, Senior Partner at Foster + Partners. The terminal features biophilic design elements, with mature trees rising through the central void. It will be powered almost entirely by an onsite photovoltaic farm.

Hydrogen-Electric Projects Line Up at Livermore Airport

A group of companies have placed their bets on clean aviation at Livermore Municipal Airport. They are working to form the nucleus of an electric-aircraft industry hub. In the past month, electric-powered airplane developer ZeroAvia, Inc., hydrogen producer Apricus Energy Partners Inc., and hydrogen-storage startup Verne, Inc. have all announced plans to begin work at the airport toward hydrogen-electric fuels and electric aircraft. The viability of the projects depend on the approval of a development proposal submitted last summer to the City of Livermore, which encompasses the three companies’ plans. Apricus Vice President Pete Sandhu said he was providing details to the city to move the proposal along. Sandhu also owns Five Rivers Aviation, the sole service provider at the airport. Hydrogen-electric systems, sometimes called fuel cells, combine hydrogen fuel with oxygen from the air to generate the electricity that would power airplane electric motors. The process emits only water. While hydrogen is more weight-efficient than batteries, and can be refueled at about the same speed as fossil fuels, the fuel takes a lot of energy to produce and requires special storage and transport. Currently, aircraft release about 8% of transportation emissions nationwide, according to the Environmental Protection Agency. Reducing aircraft carbon emissions would help to address climate change. In a Jan. 22 announcement, Hollister-based ZeroAvia said it will begin its Livermore work at...

MAGGIE: NASA plans massive solar-powered electric plane for Mars mission

MAGGIE, the next-generation aircraft, would be capable of doing global-scale atmospheric measurements on Mars, ushering in a new age of space technology. It would be developed to travel 179 kilometers at 1,000 meters altitude on a fully charged battery in 7.6 Martian days (sol). "MAGGIE is a compact fixed-wing aircraft with ultra-high productivity efficiency powered by solar energy to fly in the Martian atmosphere with vertical take-off/landing (VTOL) capability," says NASA. The concept has been proposed by US-based aerospace company Coflow Jet, LLC. MAGGIE's mission involves a comprehensive exploration strategy, aiming to unravel mysteries related to Martian geophysics, atmospheric chemistry, and the planet's potential for supporting past or present life. The data collected will be instrumental in advancing our knowledge of Mars and expanding the possibilities for future exploration and research. MAGGIE would be developed in such a way that it could travel 179 kilometers at 1,000 meters altitude on a fully charged battery in 7.6 Martian days (sol). MAGGIE's entire range is estimated to be an impressive 16,048 kilometers during a Martian year. MAGGIE would perform at least three extensive atmospheric and geophysical studies during its mission, according to current preliminary plans. The data and observations collected by the aircraft would significantly contribute to our understanding of various Martian phenomena. Among the set science goals, NASA aims to study the origin and timing of the Martian core dynamo, investigate the source of methane signals in Gale Crater, and map subsurface water ice in the mid-latitudes. “The conceptual MAGGIE system study indicates that...

The Future Is Bright for Turning Sunlight Into Sustainable Jet Fuel

The aviation sector has charted a course to decarbonize itself – and investors see opportunity. According to BNEF, startups with a focus on low-carbon aviation technology raised $4.6 billion in 2022, and another $1.21 billion was added to that tally in the first half of 2023. Among venture capital and private equity investments, sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) startups have drawn the most attention. Power-to-Liquid technologies, which combine green hydrogen with CO2 to create synthetic kerosene, have received $592 million in funding since 2021, according to BNEF – 72% of all SAF investment and 40% of the aviation total. It’s a step in the right direction when private markets recognize the profit potential of an innovation that could reduce CO2 emissions. But technological diversification will be necessary for the aviation sector to have any chance of achieving carbon neutrality in the coming decades.

Solar, battery storage in airport electrification

Swedish researchers have analyzed the impact of electric aviation and electric vehicle (EV) charging on the power system at Visby Airport. They have discovered that on-site solar panels and battery storage could significantly reduce grid stress, and have proposed a novel approach to battery operatio…

Swiss researchers say they can produce SAF from nothing but air and sunlight

Swiss Researchers Say They Can Produce SAF from Air | AINResearchers in Switzerland say they have developed technology to produce sustainable aviation fuel using nothing but air and sunlight.

Construction begins on Denver International Airport solar projects

Construction begins on Denver International Airport solar projectsWork has begun at Denver International Airport to construct two new solar arrays, intended to more than double the amount of solar energy generated at the airport by 2022, the

India: AAI, NTPC sign MoU to make airports 100% solar-powered

AAI, NTPC sign MoU to make airports 100% solar-poweredInitially, solar plants shall be set up at airports in Tamil Nadu and Rajasthan, which require a PV capacity of around 55 MW and 8 MW, respectively, to become 100% solar-powered.

New Zealand: Hawke’s Bay Airport to host country’s biggest solar farm.

Unused airport land will be used for country’s biggest solar farmWith Covid-19 cutting passenger growth, Hawke’s Bay Airport is look for new ways to make money.

Pilot Makes First-Ever Solar-Powered Free Fall

Pilot Makes First-Ever Solar-Powered Free FallThe next step is flying the all-solar plane to the edge of space.

Australia: Melbourne Airport turns to the sun

Melbourne Airport turns to the sun - Asian AviationA new solar farm at Melbourne Airport will have the capability to produce enough renewable energy to power all four passenger terminals when it is turned on in January 2021. Melbourne Airport is set to generate 17 GW hours of electricity per annum, equal to nearly 15 percent of the airport’s annual …

Cochin International Airport – the world’s first 100% solar-powered airport [see video]

Recipients of the United Nations' 2018 Champion of the Earth Award for Entrepreneurial Vision, this 100% sustainable airport has set a strong example for every airport to follow. Not only did they achieve 100% solar power, they produced 60+ tons of organic vegetables under their solar panels last year. Situated on the southwest coast of India, Cochin (aka Kochi) has been a cosmopolitan port and center of commerce since 1341, and has hosted trade from Arab, Chinese and European merchants almost continuously."As the pace of society continues to increase, the world's first fully solar-powered airport is proof positive that green business is good business." See the video below produced by UN Environment.

Electric Airplane Maker Unveils Solar-Charging Trailer

Electric Airplane Maker Unveils Solar-Charging TrailerThe German electric airplane maker PC-Aero is at the Berlin Air Show this week unveiling its latest effort towards making sport flying not only solar powered, but mobile as well.

Pittsburgh International Airport going off the grid with solar farms and microgrids.

More airports consider going off the grid as power outages ground flightsPittsburgh International Airport is creating a “microgrid” to fully power itself with its own onsite natural gas and solar energy. Recent power outages at airports make this even more desirable.
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