SAAC – The development and investment project for electric aviation in Northern Ostrobothnia
SAAC
Funders
Project information
Project duration
-
Funded by
European Structural Funds - Just Transition Fund (JTF)
Project coordinator
University of Oulu
Contact information
Project leader
- Professor
Project description
The project integrates regional airfields in Northern Ostrobothnia into a network for electric aviation, enabling more connections and shorter travel distances. This improves regional accessibility and promotes sustainable transportation.
The project particularly advances the use of renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, as energy sources for electric aviation. It explores the utilization of automation and autonomy, the development of wireless communication networks (5G, 6G), and the role of regional airfields as endpoints and hubs in the electric aviation network.
Project actions
Infrastructure Investments:
Investments will be made in an electric aircraft, its mobile storage shelter, charging systems, and a renewable energy production site. The project also includes a heavy eVTOL cargo drone and its necessary equipment.
Testing and Piloting:
A digital airfield testing and pilot environment will be established for companies and other stakeholders in Northern Ostrobothnia. During a pilot phase of at least 24 months, low-carbon aviation solutions will be tested, and their environmental, economic, and societal impacts will be analyzed.
International Collaboration:
Cross-border cooperation between Finland, Sweden, and Norway will be implemented, with a particular focus on transversal transport connections. Partners include the Finnish-Swedish Kvarken Council and Redstone AERO Oy, both supporting the development of electric aviation.
Project results
As a result of the project, a digital airfield testing and pilot environment will be established in Northern Ostrobothnia, enabling the use of electric aircraft for passenger and cargo transport. This is expected to lay the foundation for low-carbon logistics solutions and new business opportunities that support regional economic growth.
Additionally, the project promotes the development of technologies related to electric aviation, contributing to climate goals and creating opportunities for business expansion into international markets.
