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The aviation industry is witnessing a significant shift as electric and hybrid-electric aircraft are gaining traction. This transformation is driven by several key developments and innovations.
TE Connectivity, a strategic business development manager for the Aerospace, Defence & Marine business unit, is playing a crucial role in this transition. With a vast portfolio spanning various industries, TE Connectivity is optimizing customer solutions and cross-pollinating industry technology where appropriate.
One of their recent advancements is the patented technology in the new 987 connector, designed for high-vibration environments like eVTOL. This connector is fretting-corrosion-free and safe to operate, making it ideal for the demanding conditions of electric aircraft.
TE Connectivity has also developed special cable constructions for demanding aerospace applications that exceed what is seen in other applications. These constructions are engineered to meet the specific requirements of electric aircraft, such as temperature rise, arc control, and partial discharge prevention.
Meanwhile, the market for electric aircraft is progressing, with fully certified electric aircraft and prototypes powered by battery, hydrogen fuel cells, and turbine hybrids. One such development is the collaboration between HyFlux and the University of Sheffield Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre (AMRC) to create a groundbreaking cryogenic cooling system for hydrogen-electric aircraft.
The popularity of hybrid-electric aircraft over pure electric aircraft is evident, with their higher cost-per-flight-hour potentially giving them an advantage over traditional helicopters and turboprops/commuter aircraft. Commercial electric short-haul aircraft are generally expected to enter service during the late 2020s to early 2030s, with several manufacturers targeting around 2030 for initial operations.
More Electric Aircraft (MEA) is a trend expected to continue, even on traditional aircraft designs, aiming for weight savings and reduced fuel consumption. The use of sustainable aviation fuel also allows airlines to meet their green requirements relatively easily.
The NCC has adopted Dassault Systèmes' 3DEXPERIENCE platform on the cloud, extending its use to other innovation centres. This digital platform is expected to streamline the design and development process for electric and hybrid-electric aircraft.
However, the journey from prototype to industrialization and commercial success is not without challenges. The 'valley of death' poses a significant business challenge for start-ups in this field, exacerbated by delays in certification.
One company that has successfully navigated this challenge is AIR, whose latest eVTOL prototype has received FAA Experimental Airworthiness Certification.
Lockheed Martin is also making strides in the industry, upgrading the Republic of Korea Air Force's F-16 Block 52 flight simulators to mirror the advanced capabilities of its modernised F-16 Viper (F-16V) aircraft.
China has simple eVTOL use cases, and commercial applications are expected to start this year in the Middle East and possibly the West.
The fundamental aspect of the MEA efficiency proposition is in making equipment multipurpose, but a restart in mid-flight is a key safety requirement. This is a challenge that the industry is working diligently to address.
In conclusion, the shift towards electric and hybrid-electric aircraft is an exciting development in the aviation industry. With innovative technologies, digital platforms, and strategic partnerships, the industry is poised to overcome the challenges and usher in a new era of sustainable and efficient aviation. Initial commercial use is anticipated in 2028 for conventional take-off and landing (eCTOL), with several manufacturers targeting around 2030 for initial operations.
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