Dovetail Electric Aviation has been awarded a prestigious research grant by the Australian federal government to support the development of technology enabling the conversion of turbine-powered aircraft to electric, emission-free propulsion.

The Minister for Industry and Science Ed Husic says Dovetail is a great example of the high value, collaborative and industry-led research projects being supported under the Cooperative Research Centres Projects (CRC-P) programme: “Electric aviation has the potential to be a game-changer for regional transport as Australia pushes to meet our emissions targets.”

“This is a testament to the company's dedication in driving innovation in the electric aviation industry and demonstrates the Australian government's commitment to this burgeoning aviation sector," adds Dovetail CEO David Doral.

The pioneering Australian electric aviation start up is one of 19 recipients of funding under the Industry and Science Department's Cooperative Research Centre Project Grant programme.

“We are honoured to be selected as one of the recipients of this highly competitive grant. This funding will allow us to continue to push the boundaries of electric aviation and bring our vision of a more sustainable future for the industry closer to reality," continues Doral.

The grant will enable Dovetail to continue pioneering in the development of electric aircraft, helping to reduce emissions and improve the sustainability of the regional aviation industry.

The grant is an industry-led research collaboration project working with the University of New South Wales and Commonwealth Scientific and Industrial Research Organisation (CSIRO) as well as industry partners Sydney Seaplanes and Memko to develop, flight test and certify the conversion to electric propulsion of a turboprop aircraft to provide regional commuter services.

Dovetail business operations executive, Asia Pacific Rachael Barritt says: “Working with both research and industry on this electric aviation project is an incredible opportunity for Dovetail Electric Aviation. Being at the forefront of this transformative technology in Australia is a privilege. We are thrilled to be a part of this historic moment for the Australian aviation industry.”

Regional airports keep remote communities connected to the capital cities. Rex Airlines believes the conversion of small aircraft to zero-emissions electric propulsion will reduce operating costs by 40 per cent, make regional travel more affordable and open new regional routes that were not previously economically viable.