KLM and ZeroAvia Collaborate on Hydrogen-Electric Engine Demonstration Flight
Key Ideas
- KLM partners with ZeroAvia to demonstrate ZA2000 hydrogen-electric engine for large regional turboprops by 2026.
- Immediate focus on securing regulatory permits, liquid hydrogen fuel supply, and the necessary infrastructure for aircraft fueling.
- KLM Cityhopper aims to lead in sustainable aviation, supporting various zero-emission technologies like electric and hydrogen-powered flights.
- ZeroAvia's ZA2000 engine, designed for 80-seat regional turboprop aircraft, targeted for service entry in 2027, with ASL Aviation showing interest in retrofitting ATR fleet.
Dutch carrier KLM is collaborating with ZeroAvia to showcase the ZA2000 zero-emission, hydrogen-electric engine for large regional turboprops. The companies plan to conduct an A-to-B flight demonstration in 2026. Immediate efforts include selecting the optimal airport pair, obtaining regulatory permits, ensuring liquid hydrogen fuel supply, and setting up the necessary aircraft fueling infrastructure. KLM Cityhopper emphasizes its commitment to sustainability in aviation by supporting innovative technologies like electric and hydrogen-powered flights. ZeroAvia is progressing with its ZA600 powertrain on a Dornier 228 aircraft and is developing the ZA2000 for 80-seat regional turboprops, with a scheduled launch in 2027. ASL Aviation has also shown interest by signing a conditional purchase agreement for up to 20 ZA2000 engines for retrofitting its ATR fleet.