The United Arab Emirates (UAE) is set to licence the world’s first electric cargo plane, according to officials. The move is part of the country’s efforts to reduce its carbon footprint and become a leader in sustainable aviation.
The electric plane, which is being developed by Israeli startup Eviation, can carry up to 9,000 kg (19,800 lb) of cargo and has a range of 1,000 km (621 miles).
The UAE is home to two of the world’s busiest airports, Dubai International Airport and Abu Dhabi International Airport.
According to the General Civil Aviation Authority, in 2018, the UAE’s aviation sector contributed AED 122.6 billion (US$ 33.3 billion) to the country’s economy.
The UAE is also working on other initiatives to reduce its reliance on fossil fuels. In 2017, the country announced plans to build the world’s largest solar power plant. The plant, which is expected to be operational by 2021, will have a capacity of 1,000 megawatts and will produce enough energy to power 200,000 homes.
The award was in recognition of Etihad Airways’ significant achievements in reducing its carbon emissions, including a 12 per cent reduction in emissions since 2016.
Etihad Airways has also been working with Boeing to develop the EcoDemonstrator, the world’s most fuel-efficient commercial aircraft.
The UAE is committed to reducing its carbon footprint and becoming a leader in sustainable aviation. The electric cargo plane is just one of the many initiatives that the country is undertaking to achieve this goal.
The UAE is at the forefront of this technology and is leading the way in sustainable aviation.
