ZeroAvia has achieved a significant milestone in sustainable aviation by completing the first flight of a 19-seat aircraft powered by a hydrogen-electric engine. The modified Dornier 228 took off from Cotswold Airport in Gloucestershire, UK, marking a crucial step toward zero-emission commercial flights.
Key Achievements in Hydrogen-Electric Aviation
- First flight duration: 10 minutes
- Aircraft type: 19-seat Dornier 228
- Location: Cotswold Airport, Gloucestershire, UK
- Engine configuration: Hydrogen-electric powertrain (left wing) + Honeywell TPE-331 (right wing)
Technical Specifications and Implementation
The hydrogen-electric powertrain features:
- Dual fuel cell stacks
- Lithium-ion battery packs for peak power during takeoff
- Integrated redundancy systems for safety
- Temporary cabin-housed hydrogen tanks and fuel cells (planned external storage for commercial versions)
Regulatory Compliance and Testing
The flight operated under:
- Full Part 21 flight permit from UK CAA
- More stringent requirements than previous E-Conditions framework
- Complete testing protocol for commercial certification
Commercial Development Timeline
ZeroAvia’s roadmap includes:
- Target for commercial operations: 2025
- Current focus: 300-mile range for 9-19 seat aircraft
- Future development: 700-mile range for 40-80 seat aircraft by 2027
- Ongoing certification process for powerplant configuration
Infrastructure and Support Systems
The testing facility features:
- On-site electrolyzer for hydrogen production
- Hydrogen Airport Refuelling Ecosystem (HARE)
- Partnership with European Marine Energy Centre (EMEC)
- Doubled electrolyzer capacity for enhanced testing capabilities
Commercial Progress and Industry Support
ZeroAvia has secured:
- Engine order from American Airlines
- Partnership with Textron Aviation
- Infrastructure agreements with multiple airports including Rotterdam and Edmonton International
- 1,500 engines on pre-order
- Partnerships with 7 aircraft manufacturers
Government Support and Recognition
The project receives backing from:
- UK Government’s ATI Programme
- Department for Business, Energy Industrial Strategy
- Innovate UK
- Aerospace Technology Institute
- Membership in UK Government’s Jet Zero Council
About the HyFlyer II Project
The HyFlyer II project represents a groundbreaking initiative to develop a certifiable hydrogen-electric powertrain specifically designed for 19-passenger airframes. Working in collaboration with EMEC and Aeristech, the project targets the achievement of 300 nautical mile flights by 2023. This innovative program serves as a crucial stepping stone in the advancement of zero-emission aviation technology.
ZeroAvia maintains operations in both the UK and USA, holding experimental certificates from the CAA and FAA. The company continues to advance zero-emission aviation technology through strategic partnerships and government support.
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