Aurora Flight Sciences has successfully conducted a significant milestone in the field of aviation by completing a seven-hour flight test of its hydrogen fuel cell-powered small uncrewed aircraft system (sUAS) named SKIRON-XLE. The test took place at an airfield in Virginia, USA, where the aircraft was equipped with two five-litre hydrogen tanks, an Intelligent Energy fuel cell, a Trillium camera payload, and a lithium polymer auxiliary battery, totaling 54 pounds at take-off. The SKIRON-XLE is a hybrid eVTOL platform that combines electric vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) capabilities with fixed-wing forward flight, meeting US regulations for sUAS operations. Jason Grzywna, Senior Director of Products at Aurora Flight Sciences, highlighted that this successful flight test demonstrated the SKIRON-XLE's ability to provide extended flight times while remaining easy to deploy and operate. The company aims to introduce this innovative product to customers in early 2025, offering a solution that addresses the demand for longer flight durations. Furthermore, in July 2024, Intelligent Energy introduced a new line of fuel cell solutions designed for eVTOL sub-regional and regional aviation, with these products being utilized in Aurora's aircraft. The development of the initial F300 fuel cell system was revealed at the Farnborough International Airshow, indicating advancements in hydrogen fuel cell technology for the aviation sector.