In the United Kingdom, the company ZeroAvia has announced plans to launch the world’s first passenger flights powered by hydrogen-electric propulsion. As part of this initiative, modified Dornier 228 aircraft will be used, equipped with a hybrid power system—featuring an electric motor powered by hydrogen fuel cells on one side and a conventional turboprop engine on the other, reports the Baltimore Chronicle with reference to ASDNews.
The initial test flights have already taken place at Cranfield Airfield in central England. Following a series of technical evaluations and demonstrations, the company intends to commence regular flights between Campbeltown Airport in England and Island Airports in Scotland. The service will be part of the HyFlyer II project, a government-funded program aimed at developing zero-emission aviation technologies.
ZeroAvia states that by 2025, hybrid aircraft will be capable of transporting up to 19 passengers over a distance of up to 500 kilometers. By the end of the decade, the company plans to scale the technology to serve routes of up to 1,000 kilometers, carrying as many as 80 passengers. Agreements with several airlines and airports have already been secured to facilitate the deployment of the new technology.
Hydrogen-electric propulsion is being positioned as one of the most promising solutions for reducing emissions in air transport. It combines the advantages of electric-powered flight with the extended range provided by hydrogen fuel, outperforming traditional battery systems.
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