“Airports should invest strategically in renewable energy sources and battery storage systems to support the operational demands of electric aircraft,” is a key recommendation from a new report “Study on electric regional air mobility integration at airports”, from Bauhaus Luftfahrt and TUM Technische Universität München. They should also implement robust fire safety measures for battery storage and charging areas, and streamline airport operations by separating RAM traffic and optimizing security procedures. Further they need to use mobile superchargers for flexibility in smaller airports and engage with government bodies, private investors, and the public, which will be crucial for securing financial support and fostering community buy-in for transitioning to sustainable aviation practices.
“Electric Regional Air Mobility (RAM) enabled by fully electric aircraft can leverage underutilized airports to enhance regional connectivity,” says the report. “This study assesses the readiness of airports to adopt electric aircraft through interviews with airport representatives from Germany and its neighbouring countries. Insights from the interviews highlight airports’ infrastructural opportunities and challenges to adopting electric aircraft. The study informs actionable strategies for airports to become sustainable energy hubs and aligns aircraft design with operational needs.
Key opportunities:
- Airports have significant opportunities to transform into energy hubs by investing in sustainable charging infrastructure like photovoltaics and battery storage.
- On-site energy production offers substantial potential for airports to achieve energy independence, reducing operational costs and supporting electric aviation.
Key challenges:
- The development of charging infrastructure faces high initial costs, standardization needs across manufacturers, substantial power grid upgrades, and complex regulatory and logistical hurdles.
- Large-scale battery storage systems and indoor charging facilities require thorough planning and significant investment due to their technical complexities and safety requirements.
For more information
https://www.bauhaus-luftfahrt.net/fileadmin/user_upload/Images/Projektseiten/BERTL/BHL25_Study_on_integration_of_RAM_at_airports.pdf