On 19th March, Loganair made history by completing the first all-electric flight from Glasgow to Dundee, making them the first airline to do so in its own operational network.  

Developed in partnership with BETA Technologies, a US aerospace firm, Loganair operated the battery-powered ALIA CTOL as part of a two week programme to test the aircraft’s viability to carry essential goods, freight and mail. 

This test flight was authorised by the UK Civil Aviation Authority and marks a key development in Scotland, and the broader UKs, ambitions to develop safe practises for emerging green technologies.

It was an emotional moment for the Loganair team, with chief executive Luke Farajallah commenting: “This is a landmark day for European aviation and in-particular for Scotland’s airline Loganair”

“We are not talking about concepts, prototypes, or distant ambition, this is a real tangible programme of flying across our network which will provide invaluable data on how an electric aircraft could perform in a real commercial environment.

“For regional airlines, the route to net zero must be practical, affordable, and operationally viable. Electric aircraft have the potential to transform short haul flying, protecting vital air links while significantly reducing carbon emissions.

“The trial builds on our wider sustainability efforts, including fleet modernisation, operational efficiency improvements, software implementation, and the exploration of sustainable aviation fuel.”

There was industry-wide praise, Airlines UK CEO, Tim Alderslade said: “This flight highlights the exciting, real-world developments on decarbonising aviation that are happening today.

Sophie O’Sullivan, Director of Future Safety & Innovation at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said: “Electric aircraft offer the possibility of cleaner, quieter flights, with improved connectivity and greater reliability.

“As electric aerospace technology advances, trials like this contribute to our work to establish the regulatory framework for advanced air mobility, helping us enable this new technology to develop safely.”

UK aviation, maritime and decarbonisation Minister, Keir Mather, said: “We’re backing UK business with £43m to power up green aviation”. 

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“Zero emission aircraft, hydrogen fuels and advanced air mobility will unlock economic growth, reduce climate impacts from flying, and help deliver our airport expansion plans to boost connectivity and growth whilst creating highly skilled jobs across the UK.”

First minister, John Swinney congratulated the team responsible saying: “This next-generation technology ensures that Scotland is well placed to play a leading role in reducing the carbon emissions associated with aviation, while supporting regional connectivity for communities in the Highlands and Islands.

“I would like to congratulate Loganair for the work involved in reaching this important milestone and thank them for their continued efforts in supporting sustainable aviation.”