ZeroAvia, a sustainable aviation startup, took a big industry step forward today by flying the world’s largest hydrogen-electric aeroplane. The 19-seat, twin-engine Dornier 228 jet performed a 10-minute flight from Cotswold Airport in the United Kingdom, equipped with a prototype hydrogen-electric powertrain. The trip was part of the government-funded HyFlyer II project, which aims to make tiny passenger planes more ecologically friendly.
The powertrain was powered by compressed gaseous hydrogen generated on-site by an electrolyzer. The engine incorporated two fuel-cell stacks and lithium-ion battery packs enclosed in the cabin during the test. For commercial usage, however, the powertrain would be relocated to exterior storage to provide place for seats. In addition, the powerplant was combined with a Honeywell TPE-331 stock engine on the right wing for increased takeoff power and safety-related redundancy.
ZeroAvia has indicated that the technology will be certified this year, with commercial routes planned for 2025. In addition, the business is working on a 2-5 MW powertrain programme, which would scale the technology for aircraft with up to 90 passengers. Within the following decade, the company hopes to expand into narrow-body planes. Amazon has also invested in the startup as part of its Climate Pledge Fund, demonstrating its commitment to a cleaner future of air travel.
