ZeroAvia has signed a new agreement with RVL Aviation that will see the aviation services provider operate Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft retrofitted with ZeroAvia's hydrogen-electric ZA600 powertrain. These zero-emission flights are expected to begin within the British Isles once all required certifications for the engine, aircraft integration, and planned operations are secured, and retrofit and crew training activities are finalised.
The collaboration centres on the Cessna Caravan 208B, a widely used turboprop aircraft, with leasing support from zero-emissions aviation specialist MONTE. According to a joint analysis conducted by RVL and ZeroAvia, the modified aircraft will meet all current operational needs while virtually eliminating the climate impact of flight operations. Globally, there are close to 1,000 aircraft on cargo routes that could benefit from retrofitting with ZA600 technology.
Subject to the success of this initial deployment, the partners aim to explore further applications for the powertrain within RVL's expanding network, potentially extending to other aircraft types and service models as technical and regulatory conditions allow.
RVL Aviation, headquartered at East Midlands Airport, has over four decades of experience in delivering specialised aviation services. These include airborne surveys, aerial surveillance, dispersant services, and charter flights, serving both governmental and commercial clients. The company prides itself on supporting economic and environmental agendas through its operations.
ZeroAvia's hydrogen-electric propulsion system uses hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity, powering electric motors with water as the only byproduct. This technology is expected to reduce climate impact by up to 90% and significantly cut operating costs for airlines, thanks to lower fuel prices and reduced maintenance requirements. The partnership represents a notable step forward in advancing sustainable regional air transport.
