SAFE: e-LSA - Electrification of a National Light Sport Aircraft (LSA) for Pilot Training and Education.

• Grant number: 24/06499-1
• Support Opportunities: Research Grants - Innovative Research in Small Business - PIPE
• Start date: February 01, 2025
• End date: October 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Engineering - Aerospace Engineering - Aerospace Propulsion
• Principal Investigator: Luiz Alberto Gomes de Figueiredo
• Grantee: Luiz Alberto Gomes de Figueiredo
• Company: SAFE - ESCOLA DE AVIACAO CIVIL LTDA
• CNAE: Locação de meios de transporte, exceto automóveis, sem condutor ; Educação profissional de nível técnico
• Associated researchers: Luiz Gustavo de Franca Lima ; Maria Teresa Piacesi ; ROBERTO MIRANDA CANTINHO
• Associated scholarship(s): 25/00030-4 - Integration and Advanced Structural Analysis for Aircraft Optimization, BP.TT

Abstract

According to the National Inventory of Civil Aviation Atmospheric Emissions of 2019, the aviation sector was responsible for about 3% of carbon dioxide emissions within the national territory in 2018. Beyond the challenge of reducing carbon emissions and increasing energy efficiency, the aviation sector also faces another challenge, which is the shortage of professionals due to the high cost of pilot training. Thus, the development of a light sport aircraft powered by electric propulsion for pilot training emerges as a promising response to these demands, aiming to revolutionize the pilot training market and the energy supply for electric aircraft.This project aims to conduct a feasibility study of converting a conventional engine light sport aircraft (Light Sport Aircraft - LSA) to electric (e-LSA). The research will focus on the following challenges: Evaluation of available electric motors; investigation of existing and developing batteries; assessment of the technical and economic feasibility of adapting the existing aircraft structure to accommodate the new propulsion system and batteries, including initial development, operation, and long-term maintenance costs. Engineering challenges such as weight, energy efficiency, and safety, as well as the regulatory and market context for electric aircraft, will be considered.The success of this project could result in a new generation of light aircraft with reduced environmental impact and lower operational costs. It is expected to achieve a drastic reduction in the cost of pilot training, a reduction in aircraft ground time, an increase in operational efficiency, and an improvement in the sustainability of air transport. The successful implementation of this project could result in a new standard in the market for pilot training and shared aircraft ownership with the potential to generate significant savings and stimulate the adoption of electric aircraft in the market, aligning the company's business with current environmental expectations and contributing to an innovative and sustainable business model. (AU)