Potential and Limitations of Battery-Powered All-Electric Regional Flights - A Norwegian Case Study

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to look at both the potential and the limitations of first-generation electric aviation technology while emphasizing Norway's geographical opportunities and unique regional network. Electric flight distances of up to 400 km would cover around 77% of all flights within Norway. Currently, there is limited research into the suitability of battery-powered all-electric aviation in such scenarios, where Norway is an ideal case study location. In this work, the key factors, including battery technologies, propulsion systems, aircraft designs, and important aspects of the flight profile, are investigated to determine the suitability of specific routes in terms of the required power, energy, and battery size. A case study of five different flight distances in Norway (77-392 km) and two different aircraft bodies (one retrofitted with an electric powertrain and one completely designed around the electric drivetrain) is presented. While the completely redesigned aircraft is observed to fulfill the power requirements of the routes, the results suggest that modest energy density improvements in batteries would facilitate retrofitting preexisting aircraft. Finally, the study shows that it will be feasible to operate small (9-39 passengers) electric aircraft on short-haul flights in Norway through either new aircraft designs or retrofitting shortly.