Scotland\u2019s largest regional airline, LoganAir, is taking early steps toward adopting hydrogen propulsion for commercial flights. During the Paris Air Show last week, the carrier announced a partnership with ZeroAvia\u2014an aerospace company with operations in the UK and US\u2014to explore the potential integration of hydrogen-electric engines into its fleet.<\/p>\n
Building on recent commercial traction, ZeroAvia has signed a memorandum of understanding with LoganAir on the heels of its earlier agreement with UK\u2019s RVL Aviation, the intended launch operator for its ZA600 hydrogen-electric powertrain. The initial testbed will be a Cessna Caravan outfitted with the 600-kilowatt system, designed for aircraft carrying between 10 and 20 passengers.<\/p>\n
ZeroAvia to retrofit Cessna Caravan as launch platform for ZA600<\/p>\n
ZeroAvia has chosen the Caravan as the debut airframe for the ZA600. Since its first sale to Jetcruzer International in February, the company claims to have secured over 2,000 preorders, including a conditional agreement with United Airlines for 100 units.<\/p>\n
The company is advancing certification efforts with the UK Civil Aviation Authority for its ZA600 and larger ZA2000 hydrogen-electric systems, targeting aircraft like the Twin Otter and ATR series. LoganAir operates three Twin Otters, more than 20 ATRs, and several other regional aircraft including the Embraer 145 and BN-2 Islander.<\/p>\n
According to LoganAir CEO Luke Farajallah, the airline\u2019s fleet and route network are well-suited to ZeroAvia\u2019s hydrogen-electric technology. Expressing optimism about the partnership, Farajallah emphasized the airline\u2019s commitment to a more sustainable future.<\/p>\n
ZeroAvia\u2019s engines generate power by using hydrogen<\/a> fuel cells to drive electric motors connected to propellers, producing only water as a byproduct. Since regional turboprops operate below the altitude where contrails form, the company claims their in-flight emissions are virtually zero.<\/p>\n