Canada Leads the Way: World's First Piloted Hydrogen-Powered Helicopter Flight Demonstrated in Québec
Key Ideas
  • Unither Bioélectronique completes the world's first piloted hydrogen-powered helicopter flight in Québec, showcasing the potential of hydrogen in aviation.
  • The successful demonstration validates the capabilities of a Proton Exchange Membrane hydrogen fuel cell system for VTOL flight, marking a significant milestone in zero-emission air mobility.
  • The next phase of development will focus on integrating a liquid hydrogen storage system to enable extended-range missions, particularly in delivering organ alternatives to patients.
  • The achievement highlights Canadian leadership in clean aviation and the global impact of innovative hydrogen-electric propulsion systems.
In a groundbreaking development, Unither Bioélectronique, a CAAM National Board member, successfully conducted the world's first flight demonstration of a piloted hydrogen-powered helicopter in Québec, Canada. The historic three-minute, 16-second flight at Roland-Désourdy Airport marked a significant milestone in Canadian aviation history, showcasing the potential of hydrogen technology in achieving zero-emission air mobility. The demonstration, part of Project Proticity in collaboration with Robinson Helicopter Company, validated the Proton Exchange Membrane hydrogen fuel cell system's ability to meet the power demands of vertical take-off and landing flights. Following this success, Unither plans to integrate a liquid hydrogen storage system to enable extended-range missions, particularly in the critical delivery of organ alternatives to patients. Test pilot Ric Webb, under Transport Canada Civil Aviation's permit, piloted the experimental Robinson R44 Raven II using a dual PEM fuel cell/battery hybrid powertrain, with 90% of the flight's energy sourced from hydrogen fuel cells. The milestone was lauded by JR Hammond, CAAM's executive director, as a testament to Canadian innovation and leadership in shaping the global future of clean aviation. The achievement not only demonstrates the feasibility of hydrogen-electric propulsion systems but also underscores Canada's commitment to sustainable aviation practices and environmental stewardship.
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