EAG OPS FOR H2

UK-based Electric Aviation Group (EAG) has selected a hydrogen fuel cell-based powertrain for its future H2ERA regional aircraft, citing the technology’s promise of delivering zero greenhouse gas emissions.

But the change in architecture will mean that the 90-100-seater now enters service in 2030, rather than 2028 as previously planned.

Although the H2ERA was launched last year with a hybrid-electric powertrain, start-up EAG has since been evaluating numerous possible alternatives.

Chief executive and founder Kamran Iqbal says the decision was driven by the “true zero” potential of fuel cells, as they do not produce carbon dioxide (CO2) or nitrogen oxide (NOx), both of which contribute to global warming.

While burning hydrogen in a conventional engine in place of jet fuel does not produce CO2, NOx emissions remain a problem.

“We have opted for the technology that offers the maximum benefit to the environment,” Iqbal says. “It is challenging, but it is full of exciting opportunities as well.”

Hydrogen fuel cells have been used to power small aircraft – for example a six-seat Piper PA-46 Malibu converted by ZeroAvia – but so far have not been tested in an aircraft of the H2ERA’s size.

EAG’s plans to call for an aircraft that can carry up to 100 passengers, cruise at 360kt (666km/h), with a minimum range of 1,200nm (2,220km) – essentially competing against the De Havilland Canada Dash 8-400 and similar aircraft - link - Dominic Perry - link - more like this - link