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In aviation, the plane gets all the attention and photo ops. However, it does not work alone. Chargers may be overlooked, but they are essential.

Before you can fly an electric plane, like the Pipistrel Velis Electro, you need a source of electricity that matches the input needs of the battery and e-plane system. It sounds simple to plug in, charge and go. However, when an industry is new, there are lots of questions and decisions to get started.

The Sustainable Aeronautics Summit at Waterloo Region International Airport heralded the call by leaders in industry, government, and academia to create innovative sustainable aeronautics futures on Wednesday, 5 October 2022.

Two days later, the University of Waterloo demonstrated its commitment toward the sustainable aviation goal with the arrival of the first Pipistrel Velis Electro in Canada. (Admittedly, the whole process has taken over two years with discussions, applications, rejections, revisions, selection and final refinements, so the two day period is primarily good luck based on many earlier actions.)

Catherine Conway is the CEO and Chief Flying Instructor at AV8 Aero in Australia. When an e-plane (the Pipistrel Alpha Electro) arrived at her home airport (Parafield, South Australia) she was ready, not only to fly, but also to inspect and maintain the Electro. 

The rapid evolution of electric propulsion systems creates an opportunity to cut emissions by replacing conventional engines with electric motors using low carbon electricity. This trend is starting with small planes and projected to grow rapidly over the next decade. To date, no e-planes have been certified in Canada. However, a smaller, ultralight e-plane, the Pipistrel Alpha Electro, is available and the first one imported into Canada has now accumulated 500 hours of flying time. Paul Parker, the Associate Director – Environment, WISA, went for a flight and asked the owner, James Douma, about his assessment of the new technology.

From electric planes, optimized routes, and social equity, the new Waterloo Institute of Sustainable Aeronautics is leading the charge for a cleaner, greener, durable air transport sector.