Recent Development of Aircraft Electric Propulsion System: A Technical Review

Abstract

The technology of electric propulsion aircraft (EPA) represents an important direction and an advanced stage in the development of aviation electrification. It is a key pathway for green development in aviation industry and can significantly enhance the energy efficiency of aircraft propulsion system. Electric motor is the most critical electromechanical energy conversion component in an aircraft electric propulsion system (EPS). High-performance electric motors, power electronic converters and EPS control form the foundation of the EPA. This paper provides an overview of the characteristics of electric motors for EPA, analyzes the inverter topologies of EPSs, and reviews ongoing EPA projects. The article highlights the latest advancements in three types of motors: superconducting motors (SCMs), permanent magnet synchronous motors (PMSMs), and induction motors (IMs). It summarizes the control system architectures of current EPA initiatives and, building on this foundation, proposes future research directions for EPSs. These include cutting-edge areas such as high-performance motors and advanced manufacturing technologies, GaN- or SiC- based inverter integration and innovation, electric propulsion control systems, and optimization of wiring systems.