Milestone in Aviation: First Hydrogen Helicopter Flight in Canada
Key Ideas
  • Unither Bioélectronique and Robinson Helicopter Company successfully demonstrated the first piloted hydrogen-powered helicopter flight in Canada at Roland-Désourdy Airport in Bromont, Québec.
  • The flight lasted about three minutes to validate the capabilities of a proton exchange membrane (PEM) hydrogen fuel cell system for VTOL flight, showcasing the potential for extended-range missions in the future.
  • Project Proticity, a joint initiative, focuses on developing hybrid hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, highlighting the ongoing innovation in the aviation industry towards achieving zero-emission air mobility.
  • The successful flight marks a significant step towards cleaner aviation and showcases Canadian leadership in shaping the global future of sustainable air transportation.
In a groundbreaking achievement, Unither Bioélectronique, in collaboration with Robinson Helicopter Company, conducted the world’s first flight demonstration of a piloted hydrogen-powered helicopter at Roland-Désourdy Airport in Bromont, Québec. The flight, which occurred on March 27th, 2025, aimed to validate the capabilities of a proton exchange membrane (PEM) hydrogen fuel cell system for supporting VTOL flight requirements. This milestone marked the first piloted hydrogen-powered flight in Canada and showcased the hover and maneuver capabilities of the innovative hydrogen powertrain. The next phase will involve integrating a liquid hydrogen storage system to enable extended-range missions, particularly for delivering manufactured organ alternatives to patients in need. Project Proticity, a collaborative effort between Unither Bioélectronique and Robinson Helicopter Company, focuses on advancing hybrid hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, emphasizing the industry's commitment to achieving zero-emission air mobility. Test pilot Ric Webb conducted the demonstration under an experimental flight permit, with 90% of the flight's energy sourced from hydrogen fuel cells. Canadian Advanced Air Mobility praised the achievement, stating that it signifies the present-day reality of clean aviation and highlights Canadian leadership in sustainable air transportation. This success story underscores the ongoing technological advancements and the significant progress made in the aviation industry towards a greener and more efficient future.
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