How the "World's Favourite Airline" has fallen

[whole diary]

[southwest]

I do not believe that electric aircraft will EVER be possible for long distances such as trans Atlantic.
Flying needs a lot of energy, and even the best batteries have an energy density very much lower than oil derived fuels.

Electric aircraft are a distinct possibility for "short hops" such as to islands not far from the mainland. At least one has already flown. The consequences of mechanical failure could be fatal, but no more of a risk than for fossil fuel aircraft.
A large battery powered airliner able to cross the Channel with dozens or hundreds of passengers should be possible, but is there any point ? Rail is probably preferable.

Battery/solar powered airships are a possibility, but are much slower than jet aircraft. I do not expect large scale use of airships because the helium with which they are filled is in limited supply.

Airships have a history of exploding which is why they are no longer commonplace.  Battery aircraft are possible, it depends on if they weight and size can be brought to a useful size, a turbofan style engine driven by electric motor is certainly possible, but the technology would have to be proven.

[broadgage]

Helium filled airships would be safe from explosion, but seem unlikely to see large scale use due to limitations on helium supply. Hydrogen is too flammable for manned craft, as the Hindenburg accident showed.

[broadgage]

Hear Hear.

.....and Broadgage is the last person we want to be "shut down", his dissertations on steak, Port and catering in general, his passionate commitment to the environment (stopping some way short of veganism!) the shortcomings of various trains and general, oft repeated ruminations on any subject under the sun with the benefit of his crystal balls are amongst the most entertaining on the Forum................I do sometimes wonder if his is a "parody account" such as those found on Twitter and elsewhere, but I am sure he is 100% genuine and authentic...........well quite sure anyway!!! 

I would respectfully inform the honourable member that I was not only certain that I was 100% genuine at the time, but that I am still 100% genuine today, well almost certain.
Several forum members have met me in person, and at least three have stayed at broadgage towers and have survived my eco friendly lifestyle (AKA^▸ ('also known as') not having central heating)

[broadgage]

BA^» (British Airways - about) contraction continues.
https://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-55348474