Electric Aircraft
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We know that there is growing economic and political pressure to reduce greenhouse gas emissions from fuel for transportation. And the problem in aviation is compounded by lead in av gas. Lead is unsafe at any level. Across the world, as well as in the United States, there is a race to develop new technologies to achieve greener skies. Aviation is the only mode of transportation that really has not moved aggressively towards zero emissions.
The technology for smaller planes is already well established. Here are some examples: Joseph Oldham is using Chandler Airport in Fresno, California to help launch a new age of flight with Pipistrel Alpha Electros, the first certified all-electric airplanes in the world. He emphasizes that electric propulsion systems are relatively simple and easily adopted for flight, especially for smaller planes. JoeBen Bevirt founded Joby Aviation in 2009. The aircraft he and his team designed is now in-flight testing for FAA certification. It's the current leader in the race to fill the world |
with electric air taxis. It carries a pilot and four passengers under six tilting motors. This aircraft is good at hovering and cruising. The efficiency in cruise is provides the range and allows for speed. It can go as fast as 200 miles per hour and has a range of 150 miles. They plan to transform the way we move and will manufacture millions of these aircraft.
We live in times that demand action to address the climate emergency. Proponents of electric aviation say their business models do not rely on altruism but instead on the free market. RMMA, as well as other regional airports, could become a hub of development and manufacture for small electric aircraft. This would bring jobs and a sustainable income without compromising the health of surrounding communities. It is time to stop living in an echo chamber of “the way it is is the way it will always be.” It is time to change the paradigm. |