ZeroAvia and flyv have signed an agreement to explore powering flyv’s on-demand, low-cost flight operations using ZeroAvia’s hydrogen-electric engines.
Flyv aims to tackle the limitations of conventional travel systems, under strain from escalating demand across many modalities. At the same time, many smaller airfields are under-utilised. As new, cleaner technologies reduce the operating costs, an increase in services is feasible.
Flyv plans to use AI to match demand and availability to enable flexible booking for passengers. The company will operate small aircraft carrying around ten passengers and is exploring existing aircraft in service and novel zero-emission designs.
ZeroAvia is advancing in its efforts to certify a 600kW (ZA600) hydrogen-electric engine capable of powering 9-19-seat aircraft with fuel cell power only. The company plans entry-into-service of the ZA600 in around two years’ time.
As part of the agreement, ZeroAvia and flyv will explore regional air mobility networks across Europe, examining the potential economic and passenger benefits of introducing fuel cell-powered flight.
ZeroAvia has been flight testing a prototype of its ZA600 aboard a Dornier 228 aircraft at its UK base in Kemble, Gloucestershire, since last year. Hydrogen-electric engines use hydrogen in fuel cells to generate electricity, which is then used to power electric motors to turn the aircraft’s propellers. The only emission is water.
