Green Skies Over Akron: “Revolutionizing CAK with a $20M Sustainability Blueprint"

Abstract

Verbatim from Embry-Riddle Scholarly Commons. Not paraphrased, not summarized.

Our groundbreaking research at Akron-Canton Airport (CAK) proposes a transformative $20 million electrical master plan, designed to revolutionize the airport into a sustainable aviation hub and an Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) leader - a unique stance compared to similar airports in its economic corridor. This initiative, poised to impact millions of travelers, integrates cutting-edge solar panel installations and infrastructure for electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles. Our comprehensive analysis, encompassing energy consumption, economic impacts, and risk assessments, underpins this ambitious project. The implementation of green energy solutions is projected to substantially reduce CAK's carbon footprint, leading to a healthier aviation environment and a potential source of energy for neighboring cities. Notably, our results reveal a robust Return on Investment (ROI), with significant economic benefits materializing within two years post-implementation. This strategic plan not only elevates CAK as a model for eco-friendly airports worldwide but also promises a sustainable and economically viable future for the aviation sector. Our findings demonstrate the feasibility and necessity of integrating environmental sustainability in aviation, making a compelling case for similar transformations globally.

Authors

• Akintelure, Oluwasemilore A Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• Rediger, Kyle Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University
• Horn, Katie Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University

Keywords

• Akron-Canton Airport (CAK)
• $20 million
• electrical master plan
• sustainable aviation hub
• Advanced Air Mobility (AAM)
• economic corridor
• solar panel installations
• electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) vehicles
• energy consumption
• economic impacts
• risk assessments
• green energy solutions