Testing of the first Dornier 228 hydrogen-electric aircraft starts

At the Hollister Municipal Airfield in California, the British company ZeroAvia will begin testing a 19-seat pre-production concept. Last year, the developers introduced a heavy truck with a hydrogen-electric transmission, now it's the turn of the aircraft.

What is known about the new

The design is based on the ZA600 power unit with a capacity of 600 kW, which provides the necessary tractive effort and has been tested for several years on various types of transport. The aircraft was developed with the involvement of engineers from leading world companies, which ensured good aerodynamic performance and allowed the introduction of a number of technical innovations that guarantee the highest safety of all systems.



Much of the specs are being kept under wraps as it could impact a competitive advantage over other companies that are also developing environmentally friendly aircraft. Dornier 228 will be tested not only in the USA. In July 2022, tests will begin in the UK, one of the sponsors of the project is the British government.

Prospects

ZeroAvia plans to receive its FAA operating certification in 2024. The main condition is the successful completion of tests involving pilots from the US Air Force and other experts. For now, inspections will be carried out by in-house staff to address any potential issues, if any.

The main goal of the project is to create an environmentally friendly alternative to the current transport for regional passenger traffic. Upon successful completion, a model with a 2000 kW engine will be created, capable of taking on board from 40 to 80 passengers.



Another direction is the organization of an extensive network of gas stations, since there are no necessary communications at the airfields. The work is carried out by the ZEV Station company, at first tank trucks will be used as a convenient option with high mobility.

A twin-engine concept will also be tested, which combines a standard engine and a hydrogen-electric powertrain. It can become an intermediate link that will accelerate the transition of regional aviation to environmentally friendly fuels.