Twenty-first International Conference on Environmental, Cultural, Economic & Social Sustainability

Abstract

Overshadowing aviation’s many social and economic benefits, the industry’s 2% contribution to global greenhouse gas emissions hastens climate change (Air Transportation Action Group, n.d.). Electrification of air and ground operations is a promising solution to reduce the aviation industry’s carbon footprint, meet United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, and reach established targets for net-zero emissions before 2050. Developmental electric aircraft may enter the market as early as 2024, and some electric ground operations already exist; however, many technological, economic, operational, and social barriers impede broad application (International Civil Aviation Organization, 2022). The research team utilized a mixed methodology by analyzing relevant and current quantitative and qualitative data to assess aviation’s overall readiness for the approaching electric revolution, ultimately revealing the industry is not prepared for widespread implementation of the novel technology. Further, the research team employed a correlation matrix to identify Germany as the nation most likely to experience near-term, localized success with electric aviation based on applicable socioeconomic factors. Research findings highlight the necessary support structure and process upgrades required to achieve full electrification, identify an incremental way forward, and suggest organization development techniques to maximize progress.