EUROCAE is launching a Call for Interest to determine interested parties to contribute and support the development of a standard for rescue and firefighting at vertiports serving eVTOL operations. This activity will be conducted in WG-112 SG-5 once approved.
EUROCAE is playing an active role in the development of the rules and framework for vertiports. Several standards are underway, including guidance for vertiport operators and operations, and technical standards for eVTOL charging infrastructure and the use of automated ground movement equipment at vertiports.
“A crucial consideration for regulators and industry alike when it comes to design, development, and approval of new vertiports or vertiports at existing aerodrome facilities, is the means of dealing with fires caused by lithium-ion battery thermal runway. Battery fires of all types will need to be contained and/or suppressed, all whilst keeping passengers and staff at the vertiport, as well as the general public and areas surrounding the vertiport, safe from these fires and their effects. For vertiports on existing buildings, this will include the structure underneath.
“Incorporating learnings and methods from the electric automotive industry on how to deal with lithium-ion battery fires will support the development and standardisation of approaches to rescue and firefighting (RFF). In parallel, understanding how fire brigades deal with lithium-ion battery and other fires will inform the criteria for fire-response and emergency planning.
“A new EUROCAE activity is being defined within WG-112 VTOL to explore these challenges. This Call for Interest is being launched to shape the RFF solution for the eVTOL industry. Broad representation is critical for immediate success, eVTOL OEMs, fire equipment providers, fire responders, electric automotive companies, infrastructure developers, researchers, health and safety authorities and other interested parties.
The Working Group on VTOL (Vertical Take Off and Landing), WG-112, shall develop the appropriate industry standards necessary as Acceptable Means of Compliance to support the Special Condition on VTOL aircraft that EASA published in mid-2019. WG-112 is organised in eight subgroups Focus Teams, each working in a specific area. The work of the subgroups is coordinated by a Steering Committee, which ensures developmental consistency. The subgroups are:
SG-1: Electrical
SG-2: Lift/Thrust
SG-3: Safety
SG-4: Flight
SG-5: Ground
SG-6: Avionics
SG-7: ConOps
SG-8: Seats, which is joint with SAE Seats Committee
“The goal of this EUROCAE activity would be to develop a safe approach to deal with battery fires at ground facilities serving the burgeoning eVTOL industry and to help national aviation and safety authorities develop the regulatory framework for vertiport infrastructure.
For further information, please contact Abinaya Kannan, Technical Programme Manager.
Additional information
https://www.eurocae.net/
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