KLM to Showcase ZeroAvia's Hydrogen-Electric Engines in 2026
Key Ideas
  • KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will conduct a groundbreaking flight demonstration of ZeroAvia's ZA2000 hydrogen-electric engines in 2026, showcasing their commitment to cleaner flight technology.
  • The demonstration will involve an ATR 72-sized aircraft powered by liquid hydrogen fuel, aiming to provide evidence for the adoption of hydrogen aircraft technology across KLM's network and the EU.
  • ZeroAvia's partnership with KLM signifies a major step towards sustainable aviation, with plans to develop zero-emission technology suitable for a wide range of aircraft sizes in the market.
  • The collaboration also includes advanced ground tests of key technologies, technician training, and component support to accelerate the development of hydrogen-electric solutions in the aviation industry.
At the Farnborough Airshow, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines announced its agreement to perform a flight demonstration of ZeroAvia's ZA2000 hydrogen-electric engines in 2026. The demonstration aims to showcase KLM's commitment to cleaner flight technology by conducting a groundbreaking flight between two airports using liquid hydrogen fuel. ZeroAvia's ZA2000, designed for large regional turboprops with up to 80 seats, will be featured in an ATR 72-sized aircraft for the demonstration. Prior to the A-to-B flight demo, essential steps include selecting the optimal airport pair, obtaining regulatory permits, securing a supply of liquid hydrogen fuel, and establishing the necessary aircraft fueling infrastructure. This collaboration between KLM and ZeroAvia aims to provide an evidence base for cleaner flight adoption across KLM's network and potentially accelerate the development of hydrogen aircraft concepts within the EU. ZeroAvia has already conducted advanced ground tests for key technologies of the ZA2000 system, such as cryogenic tanks and the High Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell and electric propulsion systems. The partnership with KLM expands on their existing relationship, which began with an MOU in 2023 for technician training and component support. James Peck, ZeroAvia's CCO, notes the increasing seriousness with which major airlines are considering hydrogen-electric solutions. While currently designed for smaller aircraft, ZeroAvia's goal is to progress incrementally towards providing zero-emission technology suitable for a significant portion of the aviation market. Val Miftakhov, CEO of ZeroAvia, envisions a future where hydrogen-electric technologies can power aircraft of various sizes in the market, driving towards more sustainable aviation practices.
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