ZeroAvia, KLM plan demonstration flight using hydrogen-electric engines

ZeroAvia and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines announced plans for a demonstration flight using ZeroAvia’s ZA2000 hydrogen-electric engines for large regional turboprop aircraft.

Hydrogen-electric engines generate electricity using hydrogen in fuel cells, powering electric motors to turn the aircraft’s propellers. The only emission is water vapor, potentially reducing climate impact by up to 90% compared to kerosene-fueled flights.

The companies aim to conduct an initial flight demonstration between two airports in 2026. Immediate tasks include selecting the airport pair, securing regulatory permits, ensuring the supply of liquid hydrogen fuel, and establishing fueling infrastructure.

ZeroAvia has tested its ZA600-engine prototype on a Dornier 228 aircraft in the UK and performed advanced ground tests in the US and UK for the ZA2000 system. The ZA2000 will support up to 80-seat regional turboprop aircraft such as the ATR72 or the Dash 8 400.