Electric domestic aviation. Is the Danish case feasible?

Abstract

This work aims to clarify if electric-powered aviation can comply with the requirements from the Danish government for a zero-emission carbon footprint by 2030 for domestic flight routes. The battery types were presented trying to answer if electric air transportation can be commercially viable. The gap in evaluating the feasibility of moving via electric aircrafts by 2030 was met via this research, since the feasibility under the current developments to deliver enough energy in terms of Wh/kg versus the conventional fuel for a combustion-driven aircraft was analyzed. The calculations, based on Li-Ion batteries with an energy density of 260Wh/kg, showed that the goals will be met only with the development of new battery technology. According to the results again, there will be a reduction in CO2 by approx. 17%. According to the aircraft manufacturers, it will be possible to fit up to 186 passengers in a fully electric-driven aircraft, which can meet the demand for domestic flights in Denmark. Other types of batteries, such as Li-S and Li-O2 will be relevant to investigate because of their higher energy density and usage of other natural minerals than just Lithium.