The first commercial hydrogen-electric flight is set to take place in 2024.
Flying between London and Rotterdam The Hague, the 19-seat aircraft will use hydrogen fuel cells to power electric motors.
ZeroAvia, the company that developed the plane, is hoping that hydrogen-electric propulsion will not only lower emissions but also operating costs – potentially making flights cheaper, as well.
“This deal means that, in just three years’ time, you should be able to board a flight and make the hour journey between the UK and the Netherlands without worrying about the impact on the climate,” says Sergey Kiselev, Head of Europe at ZeroAvia.
“Working with partners like Royal Schiphol Group,” he continues, “we are making true zero-emission flights a reality for passengers in the first half of this decade.”
ZeroAvia will collaborate with Royal Schiphol Group on testing and demonstrating hydrogen supply chain refuelling operations and integration with airport operations.
The two companies also have hopes of establishing a regulatory framework in order to help airlines adopt hydrogen power and increase industry and public understanding about zero-emission flight.
“Boarding a zero-emission flight from Rotterdam to London is only the beginning of green aviation, and that will only be made possible by pioneering and promoting innovation in the sector. With the Netherlands as the testing ground for aviation, we strengthen our competitive position, knowledge base and business climate,” says Ron Louwerse, CEO, of Rotterdam the Hague Airport.
