Operating cost estimation methodology for eVTOL

The aviation industry keeps evolving and responding to the needs of urban mobility; a promising solution for efficient transportation is electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (eVTOL) aircraft. In this thesis, a comprehensive methodology for estimating the operating costs of eVTOL aircraft is described, discussing the various cost analysis methods and ultimately selecting the Roskam model as the most appropriate framework for this analysis. This study examines several scenarios in order to define the mission profile, in this case, the journey from Brussels to Liège, which covers a distance of 93 kilometers is selected. In the first stage, the research considers different methods of cost estimation, evaluating their relevance and accuracy in eVTOL operations. The Roskam model is preferred due to its strong analytical capability and the capacity to combine the unique parameters related to eVTOL technology. The method involves a thorough breakdown of fixed and variable expenses, such as maintenance, energy, crew, and infrastructure, which are all important for an overall understanding of the operational situation. This is preceded by the thesis analyzing the mission profile of the Brussels-Liège scenario, main factors that have to be considered are flight time, mission phases and flight total range. The analysis wants to compare eVTOL operations with traditional modes of transport, including ground-based services. The results are that while the operating cost of eVTOL aircraft is generally higher than other modes of transport, the potential for significant time savings renders them an option in the urban transport sector. Overall, this research not only emphasizes the feasibility of eVTOL technology but also indicates that the strategic cost analysis plays a central role in deciding whether it is feasible. The comparative results show that eVTOLs, although at first considered costly, are extremely advantageous in terms of efficiency and time efficiency.