Public acceptance and market potential of 19-seater hybridelectric aircraft

Statistical analysis revealed the positive attitudes to using HEAs but concerns about safety and comfort, especially among respondents with less trust in new technology. Providing clear information about new aircraft technology and pilot experience might help mitigate these psychological barriers. Mode choice modelling results indicated preference for HEAs over kerosene-fuelled airliners and long-distance buses. Business travellers who were less cost-sensitive were willing to pay more for time saved on longer-distance travels with HEAs (€147.6 / hour). This suggested a strong market potential of HEAs in the business sector, enhanced by competitive aircraft speed, efficient airport procedures and seamless connections with first- and last-mile travel. Business travellers, particularly those with reimbursed expenses, favoured HEAs, suggesting well-defined corporate travel policies could promote sustainable business travel.

Although business travellers were willing to pay more for CO₂ equivalent emissions reduction (€ 7.5 / kg), there was still a noticeable gap where environmental awareness did not consistently result in greater acceptance of HEA. Bridging this gap might need educational initiatives, policy changes and accessible information on ecological performance. Quantifying and transparently displaying carbon footprints for various transport modes, possibly through eco-labels, is crucial for informed decisions.