Speaker Interviews
Yves Gerster, Aerospace Industry Manager
Speedgoat, Switzerland
How do you see the advancements in electric and hybrid aerospace technologies influencing the future of sustainable aviation over the next decade?
The trend towards a more electric and hybrid technologies is clearly visible. This is crucial for more sustainable aviation. New propulsion concepts, such as electric and fuel-cell driven systems for short-haul or sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) for long haul flights will lead to reduction of greenhouse gas emissions. As these technologies mature, it is important to evolve regulations, infrastructure, and industry standards. Which will enable this advancement and push the boundaries of what’s possible in sustainable aviation.
What are the key challenges that the industry faces in transitioning to electric and hybrid propulsion?
The main challenges are energy storage, infrastructure, and complexity of regulation. Current battery technologies do not yet provide the energy density needed for efficient flying. Integrating hybrid systems into existing aircraft designs also introduces complexity in managing thermal loads, safety, and maintenance. Additionally, the certification of new technologies poses regulatory hurdles. Electric and hybrid technologies are often-times more complex than conventional systems. The certification paths are less proven and therefore the effort and uncertainty during certification programs is higher than for conventional technologies.