ASL Aviation Signs Order for 20 ZeroAvia Hydrogen-Electric Engines
Global operator ASL Aviation Holdings has taken a significant step towards sustainable air cargo with a conditional purchase agreement for up to 20 hydrogen-electric engines from ZeroAvia. This deal paves the way for the development of some of the world’s first zero-emission freight aircraft on a large scale. The agreement builds upon a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed in November 2021.
ASL has now secured delivery slots with a firm order for 10 engines, with an option for an additional 10. The engine purchase is supported by a related retrofit service agreement. This expands ZeroAvia’s total confirmed engine orders.
Hydrogen-Electric Engines
Hydrogen-electric engines are a game-changer for aviation.
They utilize fuel cells to convert hydrogen fuel into electricity through an electrochemical reaction. This clean process eliminates CO2 emissions and other harmful pollutants, producing only water vapor as a byproduct. The generated electricity then powers electric motors that drive the propellers.
Experts estimate hydrogen-electric technology could slash in-flight emissions by a staggering 90%. Additionally, these engines offer airlines the benefit of reduced maintenance costs.
Photo Credit: ZeroAvia
ZeroAvia Testing Program
ZeroAvia has already achieved success with multiple test flights of a prototype 600kW system designed for 10-20 seat aircraft. The company is actively collaborating with regulatory bodies to secure certification.
Furthermore, ZeroAvia demonstrates continuous progress with component testing for their 2-5 MW system (ZA2000). This is a system capable of powering aircraft within the ATR family, which ASL Airlines currently operates 13 of. ASL’s decision to explore hydrogen-electric technology for its ATR freighter aircraft aligns perfectly with their commitment to Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) principles.
This initiative goes hand-in-hand with their existing efforts to reduce Scope 1 and 2 CO2 emissions across their entire airline network. Additionally, ASL has established ASL CargoVision[1], an industry forum collaborating with leading tech companies to promote innovative solutions and sustainability practices within air cargo operations. James Peck, Chief Customer Officer at ZeroAvia, spoke on the new partnership: “ASL is a major player in the freight industry, and they’re leading the charge towards a sustainable future.”
“Their commitment to adopting zero-emission technologies sends a powerful message. Our agreements are solidifying into concrete actions, and this should be a clear signal of the significant progress we’re making in delivering clean propulsion systems.”
Image Credit: ZeroAvia
Robert Somers, Group Director Change Management at ASL Aviation Holdings, echoed this sentiment. “ASL has always believed that new, lower-emission technologies would find their initial applications in air cargo.” “As a global leader, we see it as our responsibility to explore how advancements like ZeroAvia’s hydrogen-electric engines can revolutionize aviation sustainability.
Through collaboration with partners like ZeroAvia, ASL’s ESG strategy aims to significantly reduce our carbon footprint.” “We believe integrating their powertrains into ATR aircraft is a major step forward for a sustainable future in aviation, benefiting both people and the planet.”
Photo Credit: ZeroAvia
About ZeroAvia
ZeroAvia is at the forefront of developing electric propulsion systems to create a clean future for aviation. Their primary focus lies in hydrogen-electric (fuel cell) engines.
The company has submitted its first powertrain design for certification, targeting aircraft with up to 20 seats. Additionally, they are developing a larger system for aircraft in the 40-80 seat range. Founded in California with teams in Everett, WA and the United Kingdom, ZeroAvia has garnered experimental certificates for engine testing in various aircraft with both the FAA and CAA.
They have achieved significant flight test milestones and secured key engineering partnerships with major aircraft manufacturers.
With nearly 2,000 pre-orders for engines from leading global airlines, ZeroAvia boasts a future revenue potential exceeding £10 billion.
Click the banner to subscribe to our weekly newsleter.
Click the photo to join our WhatsApp channel so then you can stay up to date with everything going on in the aviation industry!
References
- ^ ASL CargoVision (www.aslaviationholdings.com)