Electric Aircraft Operations: An Interisland Mobility Case Study

Abstract

This study focuses on the feasibility of electric aircraft operations between the Caribbean islands of Aruba, Bonaire, and Curaçao. It explores the technical characteristics of two different future electric aircraft types (i.e., Alice and ES-19) and compares their operational requirements with those of three conventional types currently in operation in the region. Flight operations are investigated from the standpoint of battery performance, capacity, and consumption, while their operational viability is verified. In addition, the CO2 emissions of electric operations are calculated based on the present energy mix, revealing moderate improvements. The payload and capacity are also studied, revealing a feasible transition to the new types. The impact of the local climate is discussed for several critical components, while the required legislation for safe operations is explored. Moreover, the maintenance requirements and costs of electric aircraft are explored per component, while charging infrastructure in the hub airport of Aruba is proposed and discussed. Overall, this study offers a thorough overview of the opportunities and challenges that electric aircraft operations can offer within the context of this specific islandic topology.