Britten-Norman Islander Aircraft to be Retrofitted with Hydrogen Fuel Cells by German Company Evia Aero
Key Ideas
  • Britten-Norman has secured a deal with German company Evia Aero to supply 15 Islander aircraft retrofitted with hydrogen fuel cell technology.
  • Evia Aero's CEO, Florian Kruse, expressed commitment to the Islander for short-haul flights, highlighting its global usage and proven track record.
  • The retrofitting initiative is seen as a step towards zero-emission aviation, with Britten-Norman aiming to lead in sustainable sub-regional air travel.
  • Cranfield Aerospace Solutions is also involved in converting Britten-Norman Islander aircraft to hydrogen propulsion under Project Fresson, set to be commercial by 2026.
Britten-Norman, an aircraft developer based in the Isle of Wight, has inked a deal with German company Evia Aero to supply 15 Islander aircraft that will be retrofitted with hydrogen fuel cell technology. Evia Aero's CEO, Florian Kruse, emphasized the suitability of the Islander for their short-haul flight operations due to its established global presence and reliability. The first hydrogen-powered twin-engine plane is scheduled for delivery in 2027, with a focus on a custom carbon design to enhance customer experience. William Hynett, Britten-Norman's Chief Executive, highlighted the adaptability of the Islander aircraft and the company's commitment to a green future, positioning them as leaders in zero-emission sub-regional aviation. This initiative aligns with the industry's push towards sustainable practices. Furthermore, Cranfield Aerospace Solutions announced their involvement in converting conventional Britten-Norman Islander aircraft to hydrogen propulsion through Project Fresson. The goal is to certify the hydrogen version for commercial use by 2026, showcasing a concerted effort towards eco-friendly aviation solutions.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.