A recent spike in oil prices linked to tensions in the Middle East has intensified the aviation industry’s search for alternatives to fossil fuels, according to Loganair’s chief executive Luke Farajallah.
Trials target short regional routes
Farajallah said the rising cost of fuel had brought the case for electric aircraft “sharply into focus”, particularly for regional carriers operating short-haul routes. The Glasgow-based airline, which serves destinations including Glasgow (GLA), Kirkwall (KOI) and Sumburgh (LSI), is currently trialling a battery-powered aircraft in partnership with U.S. firm Beta Technologies.
He described the project as one of the most significant developments in his career, noting that global events had accelerated the urgency to explore cleaner and more stable energy sources.
The ongoing trial involves an operational electric aircraft that has already undergone several years of development. Loganair aims to assess its suitability for short-distance flights, particularly across Scotland’s island communities.
Farajallah said such aircraft could eventually operate “short hop” services linking Orkney and Shetland, where flight durations are relatively brief. These routes, often connecting smaller airfields, are seen as ideal testing grounds for electric aviation.
Beyond fixed-wing aircraft, other concepts are also under review, such as seagliders and hybrid air vehicles, which could provide additional connectivity for remote regions. Industry groups have suggested that multiple large electric aircraft could be deployed across Scottish regional networks in the coming years.
Airline seeks to shield passengers
Despite the pressure of rising fuel costs, Loganair said it is working to limit the impact on passengers. The airline has secured a significant portion of its fuel supply through fixed-price contracts, covering around half of its annual needs.
Additional reserves have also been built up, helping to cushion the immediate effects of market volatility. While minor fare adjustments remain possible, Farajallah said the airline is aiming to avoid passing on the full cost increase to travellers.
He added that long-term investment in electric aviation could help stabilise operating costs while reducing environmental impact.
Would you be willing to fly on an electric aircraft for short regional journeys? Share your views in the comments below.
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