Air-Charge

An accelerated introduction of electric aviation has the potential to both reduce emissions from aviation and contribute to maintaining national transport policy goals of ensuring economically efficient and long-term sustainable transportation for citizens and businesses across the country. Numerous electric aircraft development projects are underway both nationally and internationally, including fully battery-electric, hybrid, and hydrogen fuel cell-electric solutions. A significant portion of these projects also aims for market introduction before 2030.

Common to all development projects is the need for a new type of ground infrastructure and new or expanded energy/fuel supply at airports to succeed in the introduction and operation of electric aviation. For battery-powered alternatives, this includes electrical supply and charging infrastructure, while hydrogen-powered vehicles will require access to hydrogen and tank infrastructure. Various procedures are being discussed for each technology regarding charging/fuelling, such as stationary via cable, mobile storage, or battery pack or hydrogen tank swapping. The focus of this project application is on battery-electric aviation and stationary cable charging, specifically at high power levels (1 MW+) to enable commercial passenger traffic with short turnaround times.

The overall purpose of the project is to contribute to the development of solutions and the realization of high-power charging for electric aviation, which is a necessity for accelerated introduction. As a first step toward the long-term goal, this project aims to investigate the feasibility of establishing a future system demonstrator. This includes considering the following overarching research questions:

• What is the current status of the development and standardization of solutions for MW-level charging, and what specific functional requirements should be considered when adapting them to aviation?
• Is high-power charging of electric aircraft theoretically and practically feasible, with what time horizon, and to what extent do opportunities and limitations influence it?
• What risks and safety measures are critical to consider in the implementation of high-power charging at an airport?

This project represents an initial step that has the potential to create significant value for various stakeholders and accelerate the introduction of electric aviation in Sweden.

For the aviation industry and manufacturers, the project provides guidance on how to effectively and safely charge electric aircraft with high power in future implementations. By contributing knowledge and groundwork for the standardisation of processes and equipment, the project will promote the development of a more uniform and scalable infrastructure. The project also investigates the requirements for accrediting standards and regulations for high-power charging of aircraft, such as the upcoming MCS standard (Megawatt Charging System). This could ultimately lead to significant benefits for both the aviation industry and other modes of transportation.

For airports, insight is provided into potential needs for adaptations to their existing infrastructure and airport environment itself to support high-power charging of electric aircraft. Results, such as system requirements, potential disturbance risks, investigation of charging strategies, and control systems, also provide understanding of suitable solutions and important considerations.

For airlines, there is significant value in exploring solutions for charging electric aircraft, which is necessary for them to see the development of a scalable system in which they can operate. Only then can they feel confident in making investments and contributing to the introduction of electric aviation.