FIA: Jekta and ZeroAvia to demonstrate fuel cell-powered flying boat

Jekta has selected ZeroAvia’s fuel cell technology to demonstrate the concept of a hydrogen-powered variant of its electric amphibious flying boat design.

The firms also plan to line-fit ZeroAvia’s power generation system (PGS) as the Jekta’s aircraft variant comes to market.

Powered by ZeroAvia’s fuel cell PGS, it is anticipated Jekta’s aircraft, aka the PHA-ZE 100, will achieve a range of up to 600km and increase the payload by as much as one tonne. Operating and maintenance costs can also be lowered with a hydrogen fuel system supporting a life of up to 20,000 hours.

Jekta and ZeroAvia will develop and certify an integrated PGS, including inverters, other electronic components and a hydrogen tank and fuel system.

George Alafinov, CEO of JEKTA Switzerland said: “By working with ZeroAvia and defining a suitable fuel cell system, we can offer our potential operator clients the choice of two fuel sources. The hydrogen system delivers a viable alternative to electric battery power that promises a significant increase in the range of our PHA-ZE 100, which will suit operators serving longer regional routes. 

“In contrast, the battery power option will suit shorter-range missions and operators flying in locations where electric power is more cost-effective and accessible,” he added.

ZeroAvia is already flying a prototype of its ZA600 hydrogen-electric powertrain in a 19-seat testbed aircraft. It has developed a range of flexible low-temperature proton exchange membrane (PEM) PGS solutions and novel high-temperature PEM fuel cells for hydrogen-electric aerospace applications.

Val Miftakhov, CEO at ZeroAvia said: “The JEKTA team shares our vision of introducing clean aircraft propulsion systems into commercial operations. We are noting a resurgence in the seaplane market, and we’re excited to work with an innovative company that is leading and shaping the future of amphibious aviation. We see the huge potential for creating zero-emission amphibious flights, and we believe hydrogen-electric propulsion will play a big role in this market.”

ZeroAvia is also testing electrolyzers for on-site hydrogen generation, hydrogen pipeline technology and aircraft refuelling equipment in an airport environment. Alafinov sees these as essential components supporting a regional amphibious aviation network. He plans to work closely with ZeroAvia on both an optimized installation of their PGS in the PHA-ZE 100, and in exploring the infrastructure development with operators.

Back in May, Jekta unveiled a first look at the interiors of its economy class and executive cabins for its PHA-ZE 100 aircraft designed by industrial design studio MBVision.

Max Pinucci, who heads industrial design for Jekta, said: “We believe these interiors express our ambition of creating a disruptive, original style of travel within a new mode of transport. We have created an elegant cabin for airlines flying multiple legs daily alongside a stylish cabin that adheres to the principles of being environmentally friendly internally and externally. This highlights our commitment to providing a zero-emissions airframe that supports many applications.”