The aviation industry promises a complete decarbonization of its activities by 2050. To achieve this, many levers can be activated: the reduction in the number of flights, the use of clean fuels (SAF), the optimization of trajectories and ground operations, or technological progress in the field of motorization.
In this field, if the current kerosene engines are much more sober than those of previous generations, it will be necessary to go further in innovation to achieve the objectives. The industry works on two axes: the hydrogen plane (still a long way off) and the 100% electric plane.
In this area, things are progressing. In fact, the manufacturer Eviation has operated (with a year delay) the first flight of Alice, its fully electric plane that was presented in 2019 at the Paris Air Show. The 8-minute flight took place at a low altitude around Moses Lake in Washington state.
Zero carbon emissions and less noise
This device can transport up to 9 passengers over a distance of 800 kilometers with a single pilot, says its manufacturer.
“The flight went exactly as planned,” said Eviation CEO Gregory Davis. “This groundbreaking step will drive innovation in sustainable air travel and shape passenger and freight travel well into the future. Alice produces zero carbon emissions, dramatically reduces noise and costs a fraction of the operating hour per flight in compared to light aircraft or high-end turboprops.”
“Revolutionary Stage”
If its manufacturer has not yet given a commercial launch date, the small plane has already been ordered in 137 copies by various operators, including 12 for the giant DHL Express in its cargo version that can carry 1,100 kilos of cargo.
Obviously, for DHL this device will be destined for regional routes. According to the Deutsche Post subsidiary, “it will work in all environments currently served by conventional aircraft” and offer good reliability (and less maintenance) thanks to its electric motors that “have fewer moving parts”.
“Alice’s maiden flight confirms our belief that the era of sustainable aviation has arrived. With our order for 12 Alice e-cargoes, we are investing in our overall zero emissions logistics goal. Alice is truly a game changer.” by enabling emissions-free long-haul air travel for the first time,” adds Geoff Kehr, vice president of global airline fleet management, DHL Express.
Let us remember that Deutsche Post DHL has announced its intention to invest a total of 7,000 million euros until 2030 in measures aimed at reducing its CO2 emissions.
Source: BFM TV
