Preparing Appalachian Airports for Electric Aircraft

A prototype electric aircraft developed by Airbus Group [Adobe Stock]

Through a grant from the Appalachian Regional Commission (ARC), $500,000 is earmarked for Ohio University researchers to work with partners and the state aviation departments to prepare a plan to integrate cutting-edge aviation technologies for regional airports within 36 counties in Kentucky, North Carolina, and Ohio.

With many industry pundits predicting a general aviation future centering around electric-powered GA aircraft, part of the Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) generation of less expensive and more adaptable electric aircraft, this grant combined with over $176,000 in matching funds will kick off a 12-month performance period with the culmination of one planning report that will address the AAM preparation requirements of 36 general aviation airports, specifically those airports distressed and at risk in the Appalachian counties of Kentucky, North Carolina, and Ohio.

An influx in general aviation activities is known to boost local economies with the expectation of economic growth opportunities as they integrate the sustainable electric aviation future in Appalachia.

This effort is just one of the endeavors that ARC undertakes as it supports multiple economic projects along the Appalachian Region. ARC states that these investments help build community capacity and strengthen economic growth in Appalachia, which has historically seen distress in those counties.

This article first appeared on Plane & Pilot.

Advanced Air Mobility Aircraft Appalachian Region Appalachian Regional Commission Electric Aircraft electric GA aircraft Latest from Flying modern flying Ohio University

Sam WinerContributor

Sam Winer is a longtime pilot and former owner of a Chicago-area helicopter flight school. He has also worked as an on-air reporter for radio stations in Chicago, Milwaukee, and Salt Lake City. Winer also holds commercial fixed-wing and rotorcraft ratings.