Norway, the eco-pioneer behind electric cars and boats, just took to the skies! 🌤️ A fully electric plane completed its maiden cargo route simulation between Stavanger and Bergen airports this week, marking a major leap toward zero-emission air travel by 2030. 🚀
Battery-Powered Flight Takes Off
The Alia aircraft, built by U.S. manufacturer Beta, cruised 160 km in 55 minutes during the test. Pilot Jeremy Degagne called it a "real-world milestone," comparing battery management to electric cars—but with stricter safety margins. 🔋✈️
Why It Matters
Aviation accounts for nearly 3% of global CO2 emissions. Norway’s state-owned Avinor aims to make all short-haul flights electric by 2040. This test evaluates how such planes integrate with existing air traffic—a key step before commercial rollout. 🌍
From Boats to Planes
Norway isn’t new to green tech: 80% of its new cars are electric. Now, it’s tackling aviation’s toughest challenge. Tests will continue until 2026, with regulators fast-tracking approvals. 📅
"Everything went very well," said Avinor director Karianne Helland Strand. Even a 2019 engine hiccup during an earlier test didn’t deter progress—proving innovation isn’t always a smooth flight. 💡
