Japan’s first “flying EV truck” was unveiled at Kitakyushu Airport on the 17th, and a departure ceremony for its test flight was held. At the ceremony, Kitakyushu Mayor Takeuchi said, “Today, the future takes flight from here at Kitakyushu Airport.” The electric aircraft, known as the “flying EV truck,” is an aircraft that flies using electric motors.
It is intended for cargo transport, does not emit carbon dioxide, and is expected to strengthen logistics networks for rural areas and remote islands.
Last year, Kitakyushu City, Yamato Holdings, and two other parties signed an agreement and have been working toward practical application. The nickname was chosen from submissions from all over the country and was decided as “Kitakyu E-Hawk.” The aircraft took off from Kitakyushu Airport at around 1 p.m. on the 17th and will conduct test flights over three days, making round trips to three airports including Oita Airport and Miyazaki Airport.
Japan Airlines has indicated that it may introduce fuel surcharges on domestic flights, which were scheduled to be introduced in April 2027, earlier than planned, due to soaring fuel prices.
Skymark is also considering introducing them, and All Nippon Airways is also considering introducing them. Meanwhile, an electric aircraft that takes off and lands on runways using electricity without using jet fuel appeared on the 17th for a test flight. It has a wingspan of 15 meters and a cargo capacity of approximately 560 kilograms.
It is said to be able to fly 400 kilometers on a single charge. Kitakyushu City is working with Yamato Holdings and others to promote the practical application of cargo transport using electric aircraft. What is expected is a reduction in fuel costs. It is estimated to cost less than half that of jet fuel, and is attracting more attention now that fuel prices are soaring. Another benefit is that it reduces carbon dioxide emissions.
■ Mayor Takeuchi: “This is a historic turning point in realizing a new way of transporting goods and sustainable logistics.”
■ Reporter Mie Okumura: “We are now departing for Oita Airport.” The aircraft that departed from Kitakyushu Airport will head to Miyazaki Airport from Oita Airport and is scheduled to return to Kitakyushu Airport on the 19th.
This is Japan’s first “flying EV truck.” This electric aircraft, known as a “flying EV truck,” is powered by an electric motor. It is intended for cargo transport and is expected to strengthen logistics networks for regional areas and remote islands.
The aircraft will take off from Kitakyushu Airport around 1 PM on the 17th and will conduct test flights over three days, visiting three airports including Oita and Miyazaki.
