Canada Takes Flight: First Hydrogen-Powered Helicopter Marks Sustainable Aviation Milestone
Key Ideas
  • Canadian Advanced Air Mobility celebrates the first piloted hydrogen-powered helicopter flight in Quebec, marking a significant milestone in sustainable aviation.
  • The experimental flight, powered by hydrogen fuel cells, lasted three minutes and 16 seconds, with 90% of the helicopter's energy coming from hydrogen.
  • The successful test flight demonstrates Canada's contribution to shaping global zero-emission air mobility and aims to start commercial operations by 2028, highlighting the potential of hydrogen in revolutionizing the aviation industry.
  • Hydrogen, a relatively available and environmentally friendly energy source in Canada, presents a promising solution for sustainable aviation, with water vapor as the only emission.
A Vancouver-based aviation consortium, Canadian Advanced Air Mobility, has achieved a groundbreaking feat by conducting the first-ever piloted hydrogen-powered helicopter flight in Bromont, Quebec. The experimental flight, completed by pilot Ric Webb under an experimental permit from Transport Canada, showcased the helicopter hovering above the tarmac for over three minutes, with 90% of its energy derived from hydrogen fuel cells. The success of the flight, which included a pilot on board, represents a significant step towards zero-emission air mobility. Executive Director JR Hammond emphasized the importance of this achievement, mentioning the meticulous testing process over three years that culminated in this milestone. The consortium now aims to extend its capabilities to longer distance flights and anticipates commencing commercial operations by 2028. Hammond highlighted the transformative potential of hydrogen in the aviation industry, emphasizing its environmental benefits of producing only water vapor emissions. As demand for sustainable aviation solutions grows, hydrogen emerges as a promising energy source due to its availability in Canada and its eco-friendly nature. The successful test flight signifies Canada's role in leading the way towards a sustainable and innovative future in aviation.
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.