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ZeroAvia and FEAM Aero sign agreement for hydrogen-electric aircraft servicing

May 06, 2024

ZeroAvia and FEAM Aero, a provider of MRO and Aviation Maintenance Services, have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) for retrofit, maintenance, and technical support of ZeroAvia’s hydrogen aircraft.

ZeroAvia is in the certification process for its first hydrogen-electric engine, designed for 9-19 seat aircraft. The company reported it has thousands of powertrain pre-orders. They’re preparing a network to support operators in converting their fleets to zero-emission propulsion systems and necessary maintenance support. As part of the agreement, the parties will explore how FEAM Aero’s 50+ locations can support MRO services for operators using ZeroAvia’s technology.

FEAM Aero services fleets relevant to ZeroAvia’s second powertrain design for 30-90 seat aircraft, including Dash 8 and CRJ aircraft, will also explore establishing a green hydrogen production facility at one of its locations in the United States in partnership with ZeroAvia. This will enable the support of early retrofit, testing, and training.

ZeroAvia has been flight testing a prototype of its ZA600 aboard a Dornier 228 aircraft at its UK base in Kemble, Gloucestershire, over the last 15 months. Hydrogen-electric engines use hydrogen in fuel cells to generate electricity, which is then used to power electric motors to turn the aircraft’s propellers. The only emission is water.

James Peck, Chief Customer Officer, ZeroAvia, said: “Fuel cell and electric propulsion systems will keep aircraft flying longer, but the improved economics and drastically reduced environmental impact also mean that there will be more flying, so there is a big opportunity for MRO providers in this transition. ZeroAvia needs to partner to build the network that can support our customers who are already planning their switch away from combustion engines and FEAM Aero has an exceptional track record of service and an uncompromising focus on safety and quality, as well as strong alignment with ZeroAvia’s values.”

Dan Allawat, Chief Strategy Officer, said: “We like to say that aviation is an industry where staying in motion is the only thing that matters, but aviation faces a number of challenges that potentially threaten growth. ZeroAvia is rapidly advancing towards certification for a system that can solve some of these challenges, so we’re excited to explore what this means for MRO and training in the years to come.”