Kitakyushu Airport is now the hub for Japan’s first trial of electric aircraft for cargo transport. On January 20, city officials, along with Sojitz, Yamato Holdings, and BETA Technologies, announced the start of the project. The trial involves an electric fixed-wing aircraft with a 15-meter wingspan flying between Kitakyushu and Miyazaki airports.
The aircraft, which does not use jet fuel, emits significantly less CO2 compared to trucks, offering an eco-friendly logistics option. Fresh produce and other goods will be transported, with future plans to strengthen logistics networks to remote islands. The trial aims for practical implementation starting next year.
During the trial, the aircraft will fly approximately 280 kilometers over the sea in 1.5 to 2 hours. Its payload capacity is 560 kilograms, with a range of 400 kilometers. The project will evaluate operating costs, necessary charging infrastructure, aircraft performance, and airport cargo handling. BETA Technologies plans to produce the first mass-manufactured model this year, aiming for type certification by 2025.
The project partners envision using electric aircraft for commercial cargo operations connecting regional and remote areas by 2026. Yamato Holdings also plans to introduce cargo aircraft for long-distance shipping between major airports such as Kitakyushu and Haneda. Source: Sojitz
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