Through some channels where I am involved I noticed that Australian government is seeking feedback on their Aviation Green Paper including:
- airlines, airports and passengers – competition, consumer protections and disability
- access settings
- regional and remote aviation services
- maximising aviation’s contribution to net zero
- airport development planning process and consultation mechanisms
- general aviation
- fit-for-purpose agencies and regulations
- emerging aviation technologies
- future industry workforce
- international aviation
Well, as you may see, they don’t mention any kind of airships or alternative to current aviation standard to be even considered. So I decided to send out following submission:
Submission to the Aviation Green Paper
From: Jan Bilek, CTO, EFTLAB and Founder of BBBlimp
Date: November 14th, 2023
Subject: Submission in Response to the Aviation Green Paper
Introduction
This submission is presented by Jan Bilek, CTO of EFTLAB and founder of the BBBlimp project, in response to the Australian Government’s call for feedback on the Aviation Green Paper. The BBBlimp project, detailed on our website (https://www.bbblimp.com/), represents a groundbreaking initiative in sustainable aviation, focusing on the development of hydrogen-powered autonomous airships.
This submission aims to underscore the synergies between the BBBlimp project and the objectives of the Aviation Green Paper, particularly in advancing aviation to be safer, more connected, and environmentally sustainable. Additionally, it seeks to advocate for hydrogen-powered autonomous airships and suggests amendments to the Aviation Green Paper that would pave the way for similar innovative projects.
Alignment with Aviation Green Paper Goals
1. Environmental Sustainability:
- Hydrogen-powered airships align with the Green Paper’s emphasis on reducing environmental impact in aviation. Airships produce zero emissions, significantly contributing to the reduction of greenhouse gases in the aviation sector.
- The use of renewable hydrogen as a fuel source is in line with Australia’s focus on developing a hydrogen-based economy, presenting an opportunity for sustainable aviation.
2. Innovation and Technological Advancements:
- The modern airship projects incorporate advanced technologies such as 3D printing, robotics, machine learning, and modern materials like Kevlar and carbon fiber. This aligns with the Green Paper’s focus on promoting innovation in aviation.
- Our use of IoT technologies enhances passenger safety and comfort, demonstrating a commitment to leveraging technology for improved aviation experiences.
3. Accessibility and Inclusivity:
- Airships offer a unique travel experience, potentially more accessible to individuals with disabilities due to the spacious and customizable nature of airship cabins.
- The project’s focus on quieter travel (below 69 decibels operational noise) addresses the need for reduced noise pollution, benefiting communities near flight paths.
4. Economic and Social Benefits:
- The development of airship technology opens new economic opportunities in tourism, surveillance, and transportation, aligning with the Green Paper’s goal of a more connected aviation sector.
- Airship projects bring potential to access remote and regional areas can enhance connectivity and accessibility, especially in parts of Australia that are currently underserved by traditional aviation.
Recommendations
In light of the above, we recommend the following considerations for the Aviation White Paper:
- Support for Sustainable Aviation Technologies: Encourage and facilitate the development of sustainable aviation technologies like hydrogen-powered airships.
- Innovation Funding and Partnerships: Establish funding mechanisms and partnerships also to support experimental innovative aviation projects, particularly those focusing on environmental sustainability.
- Regulatory Framework for New Aviation Technologies: Develop a regulatory framework that accommodates and promotes new aviation technologies, ensuring safety and accessibility.
- Promotion of Hydrogen Infrastructure: Support the development of hydrogen production and refueling infrastructure to facilitate the growth of hydrogen-powered aviation.
Conclusion
The Airship projects embodies a significant step towards a more sustainable, innovative, and inclusive aviation sector, while embracing the latest trends in technology. We are confident that our project closely aligns with the objectives of the Aviation Green Paper and can make a meaningful contribution to the future of Australian aviation.
We anticipate the opportunity to collaborate and contribute to the development of the Aviation White Paper and are hopeful that this contribution will open an opportunity for hydrogen-powered airship projects to be considered as a part of Australia’s aviation future.
Contact Information
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Submission submitted!
While posting it, I found list of previous submissions. It is an interesting reading.
