The Sustainable Aviation Project: eFlight Everywhere

21 Apr 2017
10:25 - 10:55

The Sustainable Aviation Project: eFlight Everywhere

Abstract

Joseph Oldham will present the Sustainable Aviation Project: eFlight Everywhere; the first deployment of production electric aircraft in commercial flight training service in the United States.  A joint effort between the City of Reedley, City of Mendota, Reedley College, Mazzei Flying Service, the Fresno Business Council, and the CALSTART San Joaquin Valley Clean Transportation Center, the project is using $1,071,348 in funding from the Fresno Council of Governments New Technology Reserve Fund Grant program for equipment, electric aircraft charger installation, technical assistance, and low-income student assistance costs.  Mr. Oldham will discuss the origin, development, and stakeholder engagement process for the project and provide updates on the current status of deployment of the aircraft and network of chargers to support their operation at four (4) airports in Fresno County.  The project benefits include:

  • Zero emission operations.
  • 90% reduction in noise levels
  • Increased safety due to no flammable fuel on board for both pilots and ground personnel
  • Improved access to aviation careers through lower cost for flight training
  • Increased utilization and revitalization of rural airports

The Sustainable Aviation Project is designed to provide an essential first step for gaining public acceptance of the advanced electric aircraft technology being developed by entrepreneurs around the world.