Alternative energy in aviation

perspective and challenges

Abstract

The current global energy matrix, heavily dependent on fossil fuels, is unsustainable and the main cause of atmospheric pollution and global warming. Air transportation has significantly increased worldwide in recent years. In Brazil, the number of domestic and international flights grew by 69% between 2009 and 2018. The aviation sector contributes approximately 2% to greenhouse gas emissions, a relatively small portion of the total global emissions. In this context, the use of new energy sources in aviation is necessary to mitigate the negative effects of fossil fuel combustion and increase the sustainability of the aviation industry. This article seeks to answer what is the potential for the adoption of alternative energy sources for aviation in the future. The objective of this article is to analyze the challenges and opportunities of alternative energies, examining the current development of these sustainable technologies and the barriers to be overcome in order to compete with the use of fossil fuels. The methodological procedure used is exploratory in nature, based on specialized literature. It is concluded that there are several challenges for all the technologies discussed to become accessible for commercial use. Nevertheless, important steps have been taken, allowing for the emergence of a greater number of technological innovations aimed at a future with less dependence on oil and its derivatives.