For this discussion activity, read the information at  An All-Electric Aircraft (Links to an external site.)

 from Wired, and then conduct additional research into the possibility of totally electric powered passenger aircraft.

Address the following in your primary, original posting:

• Based on your research, how viable is the possibility of completely electric aircraft?
• What are the major issues/concerns to developing and operating totally electric aircraft? 
• What technological advancements have been made that could make the operation of a completely electric aircraft a reality?
• What do you see as the biggest challenge for an aircraft maintenance manager in maintaining a totally electric aircraft?

 

Based on your research, how viable is the possibility of completely electric aircraft?

It is really possible since there's already an electric plane which took off last May 28, 2020 at the central Washington state. It soared above for 30 minutes. But it is only a small plane which can carry only 9 passengers and far from those larger passenger planes. This is a great start for the future of all- electric aircraft. Maybe in the next 50 years, there will be an all-electric plane already.

What are the major issues/concerns to developing and operating totally electric aircraft?

The main issues are the batteries. Sine it needs too much power, it needs many batteries. These batteries are heavy which will require more energy, thus lessens the available power. Another is the problem with long haul travel. The power may be insufficient for long travels and may cause problems.

What technological advancements have been made that could make the operation of a completely electric aircraft a reality?

Since there is already one working, it is really a great advancement. Maybe redesigning the plane in which the weight of the batteries can be distributed accordingly can be a great help. Moreover, batteries can be improved to be lightweight and carry more power to support long haul.

What do you see as the biggest challenge for an aircraft maintenance manager in maintaining a totally electric aircraft?

The biggest challenge for an aircraft mechanic would be re-studying the design of the new plane especially the power needed, the supply, and its maintenance. The mechanic must also be great at troubleshooting in order to repair this new set up. Also, seminars or trainings will also be a great help to the mechanics to learn the basics.