Airbus-backed powertrain developer ZeroAvia is advancing an interim hydrogen-electric propulsion concept that could power narrowbody aircraft as early as 2030. The company is eyeing a scalable hydrogen-electric powertrain, the proposed ZA10000 family, designed to support 100- to 200-seat aircraft within the next decade. This initiative could see the development of a new blended-wing narrowbody design capable of carrying the required liquid hydrogen.
Airbus became a leading investor in ZeroAvia in late 2023, and CEO Val Miftakhov has expressed hopes of powering Airbus’ ZEROe concept aircraft, which is anticipated to enter the market by 2035. However, ZeroAvia’s head of R&D, Rudolf Coertze, is also investigating an interim hybrid solution that could be integrated into existing narrowbody designs.
The proposed hybrid engine would combine a gas turbine engine for hydrogen combustion with an electric drive and hydrogen fuel cells. This configuration could potentially bring forward the timeline for narrowbody hydrogen-electric propulsion to 2030-2032. However, this solution may come with payload-range limitations, focusing on routes typically under 1,000 nautical miles.
ZeroAvia is also progressing with its ZA600 engine, intended for smaller commercial turboprops up to 20 seats, with certification expected by 2025 and entry-into-service (EIS) in 2026. The ZA2000, designed for larger turboprops with 40-90 seats, is slated for 2027 certification and 2028 EIS. Additionally, ZeroAvia is collaborating with Mitsubishi’s regional jet division to develop the ZA2000RJ variant for regional jets, with a timeline of five to six years.
ZeroAvia’s technology aims to reduce climate impact by up to 90% compared to traditional kerosene-powered flight, marking a significant step toward sustainable aviation.
IMAGE CAPTION: ZeroAvia’s ZA600 Motor is on display during the Farnborough International Airshow 2024 on July 23, 2024. Credit: John Keeble / Getty Images
