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The Farnborough Airshow 2024 has brought to light significant advancements in green aviation technology, signaling a potential shift in the regional airliner market. Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS) is set to conclude the first stage of its Series B funding round by the end of July, enabling it to advance its hydrogen-powered regional airliner project. Despite delays in funding that postponed hardware purchases for its technology demonstrator, CAeS remains committed to launching a converted nine-passenger Britten-Norman Islander into commercial service by 2027.
CAeS plans to replace the Islanders’ piston and turboprop engines with its hydrogen fuel cell system integrated into nacelles on the wing. The company is also exploring other applications for this technology, including uncrewed cargo aircraft and auxiliary power units (APUs) on existing airliners. “We now have a very sophisticated hydrogen fuel cell system that we believe delivers the highest available energy density,” said CAeS chief executive Paul Hutton. The company aims to start flying a technology demonstrator by July 2025 after completing ground tests.
The engineering team has refined its packaging plans for the propulsion system’s components while addressing thermal management challenges. Prospective customers for the hydrogen-powered Islanders include UK regional carrier Loganair, Monte Aircraft Leasing, Germany-based start-up Evia Aero, and U.S. fractional aircraft provider Stratus 9.
