Ostend-Bruges hosts electric cargo aircraft as sector eyes low-emission logistics
Ostend-Bruges Airport has welcomed a fully electric cargo aircraft for the first time, marking a milestone in its efforts to support the development of low-emission aviation.
The aircraft’s visit formed part of a series of operational test flights taking place across the Benelux region.
The stopover at the airport’s NSAC Business Terminal also underscored the joint ambition of Ostend-Bruges Airport and Antwerp Airport to position themselves as early adopters of emerging aviation technologies.
Nathan De Valck, chief executive of Ostend-Bruges Airport and Antwerp Airport, said: “Regional airports like Ostend-Bruges and Antwerp have the necessary space and operational flexibility required to thoroughly test and further scale up new technologies such as electric flying. In this way, we can and want to play a pioneering role in making the aviation sector more sustainable.”
The demonstration highlights the growing potential of electric and hybrid-electric aircraft to serve regional routes, particularly those linking secondary cities and business centres within a range of approximately 500 to 1,000 kilometres.
According to De Valck, the airports’ location in Western Europe places them in a strong position to benefit from the development of these new transport networks.
In the near term, the airports see opportunities for electric aviation in specialised cargo operations, including the transport of organs, urgent medical supplies and other time-critical shipments. The technology could also support small-scale e-commerce movements and high-value cargo services.
Looking ahead, De Valck said wider commercial applications are expected as the technology matures.
“We expect the technology to be ready for a broader rollout within a few years, allowing regular passenger transport and business aviation to launch as well,” he added.