Dundee could become home to Scotland’s first “green” airport if proposals from the city’s council leader come to fruition.
John Alexander has written to Scottish Transport Minister Michael Matheson to discuss Dundee Airport’s future.
He has called for initiatives under the Tay Cities Deal and new Michelin innovation centre to focus on making Dundee a leader in environmentally-friendly aviation technology.
The Scottish Government will consider the proposals, as part of their plans to decarbonise internal flights by 2040.
In his letter, Mr Alexander said: “We have a unique opportunity in Dundee.
“As part of the Tay Cities Deal, an aviation academy is proposed to deliver world class training and produce a range of skilled individuals.
“But are we looking to the future and ensuring that these skills recognise emerging technologies such as electric planes or hybrid propulsion systems that run on sustainable aviation fuels derived from waste?
“I believe that Dundee could become a hub for these technologies.
“With work underway to develop the former Michelin site into the Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc – focused on innovation, electric vehicles and hydrogen technology and mobility – the time is now.
“There is a direct link between the two and why couldn’t Dundee be the place in which that technology is developed, produced and tested?”
Mr Alexander has asked Mr Matheson to chair a round table meeting with relevant partners and organisations to explore the ideas further.
He added: “I’m realistic that this technology will not be available tomorrow and that it won’t address the long-haul dimension right now but progress has to start somewhere.”
A Scottish Government spokesperson said there was commitment to Dundee Airport and to attracting opportunities for the site.
She added: “The Scottish Government is taking an innovative approach to de-carbonising aviation.
“We have committed to decarbonising internal scheduled flights by 2040, and to trialling a zero emission aircraft in Scotland in 2021.
“We are also working with Scottish businesses and research institutions to ensure that Scotland’s economy is positioned to benefit from the transition to zero emission mobility.
“This includes supporting the Michelin Scotland Innovation Parc which is being established with the aim of becoming a globally-recognised centre of excellence and a world leader in sustainable mobility and low carbon technology.
“We will respond to Councillor Alexander’s letter in due course.”
