Electric aircraft could start operating commercial flights in Europe from 2030, mainly on short routes, although their market entry depends on technological progress, financing, infrastructure and regulatory adaptation.
According to an analysis by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), cited by the Spanish agency Efe, 25% of European flights cover distances of less than 500 kilometers.
Such routes could be served by the next generation of all-electric aircraft, while hybrid models are estimated to be able to cover distances of up to 1,000 kilometers.
Tom Taylor, head of policy for aviation, shipping and low-carbon fuels at the European Federation for Transport and the Environment (T&E), told Efe that the relevant technology is evolving "at a rapid pace".
The routes that could cover
In Spain, electric or hybrid aircraft could serve connections between the mainland and the Balearic Islands, as well as flights between the Canary Islands.
At the European level, routes such as London-Dublin, Rome-Sardinia and Athens-Santorini are considered suitable.
The development of the technology is already underway. The European company VÆRIDION is planning a nine-seat electric aircraft, with a planned range of 400 to 500 kilometers, and aims to secure certification for passenger transport in 2030.
At the same time, AURA AERO is developing a 19-seat hybrid-electric aircraft.
Regulatory and financial barriers
Mr. Taylor pointed out that the key hurdles are not only technological, but also regulatory and financial. The applicable airport charges, which are based on the weight of the aircraft, may place a disproportionate burden on electric models due to the weight of their batteries.
"Specific regulatory changes should ensure that these clean aircraft pay a per-seat tax equal to or lower than that of conventional aircraft," he said.
At the same time, airports should be equipped with sufficient electricity and hydrogen supply infrastructure to allow for the widespread use of the new aircraft.
The danger of the "valley of death"
The expert also warned of the so-called "valley of death" of clean aviation. This is the stage at which startups need significant capital to move from prototype development to commercial production.
To address the funding gap, T&E is proposing the creation of a dedicated programme under TechEU, the European Investment Bank's financial instrument for innovation and technological sovereignty.
The programme could mobilise up to €2 billion through co-financing, alongside the creation of real testing environments, to present the technology to potential investors
