H2FLY estimates that this breakthrough can increase the range of the HY4 demonstrator aircraft from 466 miles (750 kilometers) to an impressive 932 miles (1,500 kilometers).
H2FLY, a subsidiary of Joby Aviation, has achieved a groundbreaking milestone by successfully completing the world’s first piloted flight of a liquid hydrogen-powered electric aircraft. The achievement marks a significant step forward in the development and testing of hydrogen aviation propulsion systems. The aviation industry is increasingly embracing hydrogen as a promising solution to reduce emissions and promote sustainability. H2FLY’s groundbreaking achievement not only highlights the feasibility of liquid hydrogen as an aviation fuel but also brings the industry closer to the realization of zero-emission mid- to long-range air travel.
Acquired by Joby Aviation in 2021, H2FLY has maintained a leadership position in the pursuit of hydrogen-powered aviation solutions. The company recently conducted a series of piloted flights with its HY4 demonstrator aircraft, equipped with a hydrogen-electric fuel cell propulsion system. During one of these flights, the aircraft was powered by liquid hydrogen for over three hours, showcasing the viability of this innovative technology.
JoeBen Bevirt, Founder and CEO, Joby Aviation said, “H2FLY are pioneers in their field, and we’re proud of them achieving this watershed moment in the use of liquid hydrogen to power aircraft. In the years to come, battery-electric and hydrogen-electric propulsion systems will enable us to build aircraft that are quieter and make mid- to long-range air travel possible with zero emissions. It’s critical we take action now and invest aggressively in these technologies for the health of our planet and future generations to come.”
What sets this achievement apart is the use of cryogenically-stored liquid hydrogen instead of gaseous hydrogen. This choice offers several advantages, including significantly reduced tank weight and volume, resulting in extended flight ranges. H2FLY estimates that this breakthrough can increase the range of the HY4 demonstrator aircraft from 466 miles (750 kilometers) to an impressive 932 miles (1,500 kilometers). This advancement represents a crucial step towards the long-term decarbonization of mid- to long-range aviation.
These successful flights are the result of Project HEAVEN, a consortium supported by European governments, focused on demonstrating the feasibility of using liquid hydrogen in aircraft. Led by H2FLY, the consortium includes key partners such as Air Liquide, Pipistrel Vertical Solutions, the German Aerospace Center (DLR), EKPO Fuel Cell Technologies, and Fundación Ayesa.
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With this significant milestone achieved, H2FLY is now shifting its attention towards commercialization. In June, the company announced the development of new fuel cell systems capable of providing their full power range at altitudes suitable for commercial hydrogen-electric aircraft. These real-world applications demonstrate the growing potential of hydrogen as a clean and efficient energy source for aviation.
