Latrobe City Council welcomed the establishment of the Dovetail Electric Aviation Development Centre, in partnership with Dovetail and Invest Victoria on Friday 12 April.
The Development Centre is located in the Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct at the Council-owned Latrobe Regional Airport. The aim of the Centre is to fit regional aircraft with batteries and hydrogen propulsion, to enable zero-emission flights, addressing the environmental impact of air travel and boosting the local clean energy sector.
The Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct is a flexible use Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) space which enables AAM companies to develop technology in Latrobe City. Council has been developing the Precinct for the past two years, with support and guidance from Invest Victoria.
Minister Harriet Shing was present to announce the Victorian Government's support for Dovetail. The Victorian Government backs the local aviation and clean energy sectors to create highly skilled jobs and decarbonise aviation.
Mayor of Latrobe City Council, Councillor Darren Howe said Council is excited to partner with the Victorian Government and Dovetail.
"With access to flight testing support and uncongested airspace, the Development Centre will help progress the local clean energy aviation sector and drive future AAM activities to support economic growth in the region," said the Mayor.
"As our region transitions from the traditional industries that have underpinned our economy, we are looking towards new industry and innovation. Latrobe Aerospace Technology Precinct presents an opportunity to position Latrobe Regional Airport at the forefront of the emerging aviation sector creating new industry and enabling investment and employment opportunities."
"Council welcomes collaboration with existing and emerging technologies in AAM as we establish this exciting new industry and investment."
The Development Centre will also support growth in regional freight, tourism and service delivery, highlighting Victoria as a leader in sustainable regional aviation.
