A consortium led by Bristow Helicopters Ltd has launched Project SEAN, an initiative to advance electric aviation across Scotland's Highlands and Islands. The project, set to begin in 2027, has secured $18.3 million (£15 million) in funding from the Department for Transport to conduct electric aircraft demonstration flights. This initiative aims to enhance regional connectivity, support sustainable air services, and serve remote communities.

The Scottish Electric Aviation Network (SEAN) will utilise BETA Technologies' all-electric ALIA CTOL CX300 aircraft in a three-month flight programme. Operating from a hub at Inverness Airport, the flights will connect with regional airports such as Wick John O'Groats Airport. The project will gather operational data to assess aircraft performance, charging infrastructure, and airport readiness for future electric flight operations.

Simon Meakins, Project SEAN consortium lead for Bristow, stated, "Project SEAN brings together organisations committed to exploring how electric aviation can support regional connectivity whilst reducing emissions across Scotland's Highlands and Islands." The consortium includes BETA Technologies Inc, Electric Aviation Maven, Highlands and Islands Airports Limited (HIAL), Highlands and Islands Transport Partnership (HITRANS), and Skyports Infrastructure.

Building on previous zero-emission aviation initiatives in Europe and the UK, Project SEAN aims to provide evidence-based recommendations for the commercial deployment of electric aircraft. The project is expected to contribute significantly to regional connectivity and broader decarbonisation goals. As the project progresses towards flight operations in 2027, it promises to offer practical insights into the future of electric aviation in Scotland and beyond

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