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Hydrogen Aircraft to Kick Off Operations in Northern Europe by 2025

SAF (sustainable aviation fuel), on one hand, and hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, on the other hand, seems to be the main directions for green commercial flights. There are two approaches when it comes to hydrogen – one is to develop dedicated aircraft from scratch, and the other is to retrofit existing airframes, a solution that also supports the circular economy.
The Islander is a highly-versatile aircraft with numerous configurations 10 photos
Photo: Britten Norman
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One of the numerous aviation startups focusing on zero-emissions, sustainable solutions for regional flights is a company called Evia Aero, based in Bremen, Germany. It plans to start operating hydrogen-fueled fleets in just a few years. Evia Aero’s newest partner, Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS), will convert the aircraft to hydrogen-electric propulsion.

Based at the Cranfield Airport in the UK, CAeS has the advantage of easy access to advanced test and research facilities for new technologies. It will use its expertise to convert an already existing model from conventional fossil fuel to gaseous hydrogen. The Britten Norman Islander, a nine-seat aircraft, will be fitted with a fuel cell system and electric motor.

This will turn it into an emission-free air vehicle. Once it obtains the Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) it will kick off passenger flights as soon as 2025. Retrofitting allows hydrogen-powered aircraft to be ready for service much sooner than those designed specifically for a hydrogen-electric powertrain. The modified Britten Norman Islander is set to provide emission-free air services in Northern Europe in just two years.

Islander is one of the most versatile aircraft available today. For conventional operations, its two-piston versions are powered by Lycoming’s 540 Series six-cylinder engines, while the turboprop version is equipped with Rolls-Royce 320 HP engines. Its length varies from 35 to 40 feet (10.9 to 12 meters), and its modular cabin design can go from a passenger layout to freight transportation and special missions.

This new collaboration is just one of several aircraft retrofit projects currently underway. The largest one is most likely ZeroAvia’s 19-seat regional aircraft conversion to the ZA600 hydrogen-electric powertrain.
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 Download: Evia Aero and Cranfield Aerospace Solutions launch a collaboration (PDF)

About the author: Otilia Drăgan
Otilia Drăgan profile photo

Otilia believes that if it’s eco, green, or groundbreaking, people should know about it (especially if it's got wheels or wings). Working in online media for over five years, she's gained a deeper perspective on how people everywhere can inspire each other.
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