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.