Panel 2: What is best for short and medium range transportation?

Wednesday, January 15th
15:00 – 16:30 | HG F 30 | Audi Max

Moderator: Piero Colonna (TU Delft)

Panelists: Florian Allroggen (MIT), Scott Cary (NREL), Naoki Seki (IHI), Vince Sidwell (Pratt &Whitney), Fabian Donus (MTU)

Abstract:

The civil aviation segment focused on short- and medium-range missions (500–1000 km) is expected to grow very rapidly in many regions of the world, reaching unprecedented levels. While high-speed rail offers clear advantages in terms of reducing global warming emissions, the significant costs and extended timelines required for infrastructure development and commissioning present substantial challenges. Adding to the complexity are economic factors, as well as local and global political dynamics, which further complicate decision-making.

This panel session does not aim to discuss all aspects of this multifaceted issue but seeks to provide critical insights through expert perspectives and illustrative examples. Panelists will explore the trade-offs, challenges, and opportunities, helping to shed some light on what might be the most sustainable and practical solutions, depending on boundary conditions.