Green Testbeds Part 3: Skellefteå Prepares for the Future of Sustainable Aviation
We continue our article series on the vital test and demonstration environments in the region. Next up is Arctic Aviation Hub, a testbed for sustainable aviation.
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Skellefteå Prepares for the Future of Sustainable Aviation
In Skellefteå, a testbed for the sustainable aviation of the future is taking shape. Arctic Aviation Hub offers companies and researchers the opportunity to develop and test technologies like battery- and hydrogen-powered aircraft, drones, and new infrastructure for sustainable transport. These are solutions that have the potential to transform both local and global travel and logistics.
“We provide the infrastructure and create the opportunities, while companies and researchers bring their innovations. The goal is to support development for faster commercialization and build an ecosystem for the aviation of the future,” says Henrik Littorin, Program Manager at Arctic Aviation Hub.
Arctic Aviation Hub, previously known as ELIS, leverages Skellefteå’s specific strengths: a cold climate, unoccupied airspace, green electricity, and extensive expertise in electrification. The program offers three physical test environments for aviation, which serve as strong assets in attracting stakeholders at various stages of development:
Skellefteå Airport
The airport boasts one of the world’s most powerful electrical grids for charging electric aircraft and provides a site for testing high-power charging and larger vertical take-off and landing vehicles, known as eVTOLs. It is also a hub for addressing electromagnetic interference (EMC) in collaboration with Luleå University of Technology, offering realistic environments for testing.
Skellefteå Droneport
As one of Europe’s largest urban-adjacent drone airports, this platform facilitates testing of everything from drone functionality to software for sequence landings and detection systems. Logistics solutions for handling goods and shipments under demanding conditions, such as cold, darkness, and wind, are also trialed here.
Campus Skellefteå
In partnership with Luleå University of Technology and organizations like Arctic Game Lab, advanced technologies are being developed in areas such as connectivity, 5G, cybersecurity, and simulation. Additionally, VTI (Swedish National Road and Transport Research Institute) has established itself in Skellefteå as a key partner in driving projects focused on transport and mobility.
“We are constantly learning and aim to adapt our offerings based on the needs of developers. It could start with energy supply and charging before actual flight tests take off. Our goal is to create an environment where companies, large and small, can commercialize their innovations,” Henrik explains.
A Long-Term Commitment Without Short-Term Returns
Arctic Aviation Hub views sustainable air mobility as part of a broader societal context. The aim is to integrate different modes of transport – from buses and cars to airborne solutions – to create seamless systems that enhance both local and global travel.
Unlike many other testbeds, which often operate with commercial demands, Arctic Aviation Hub is driven by a long-term focus on societal benefits and sustainable development. Key players in the initiative include Skellefteå Kraft, the municipality, Skellefteå Airport, and Skellefteå Science City, with the program designed to meet industry needs over time.
“This is a long-term investment where we don’t expect quick returns. Instead, it’s about building infrastructure and an ecosystem that can attract stakeholders from around the world. We’re breaking new ground and see great potential in linking technological solutions to societal benefits,” says Henrik.
This is what future Droneport solutions could look like. By the end of 2024, the infrastructure and initial operations are expected to be in place in Skellefteå. Visualization: White Arkitekter
Next Steps – Hydrogen and International Collaborations
Plans for the future include developing a system demonstrator for hydrogen infrastructure at Skellefteå Airport, creating new opportunities for sustainable aviation. At the same time, Arctic Aviation Hub is actively working to attract international companies and startups to Skellefteå to test and develop their innovations in real-world environments.
“We want to welcome stakeholders who see the value of coming to Skellefteå and utilizing our unique conditions. It’s incredibly exciting to be part of the solutions for the sustainable aviation of the future,” Henrik concludes.
More articles in the series:
Green Testbeds Part 1: Reselo and the Future of Rubber Manufacturing
Green Testbeds Part 2: BTC in Umeå Attracts Global Customers