Jekta partners with ZeroAvia for hydrogen-powered seaplane development

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Jekta partners with ZeroAvia for hydrogen-powered seaplane development

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JSX Aircraft | Official Website

By Sky Industry News

Jul 22, 2024

Jekta has selected ZeroAvia’s fuel cell power generation system for its planned PHA-ZE 100 hydrogen-electric amphibious aircraft. The Swiss start-up announced the agreement on Monday at the Farnborough International Airshow, aiming to bring the latest version of the 19-passenger seaplane to market following certification of an initial battery-electric model.

The hydrogen-powered PHA-ZE 100 is expected to achieve a range of up to approximately 326 nautical miles. Jekta plans to build a full-scale prototype in 2027, anticipating that advancements in battery technology will enhance performance. The company aims for EASA type certification by 2029.

Jekta CEO George Alafinov stated that despite uncertainty regarding battery pack decisions, his engineering team is progressing with the design work on the PHA-ZE 100. He noted MagniX’s recent launch of its Samson battery, which offers an energy density of 300 watt-hours per kilogram (Wh/kg), as indicative of rapid technological changes. “That was a real curveball because it would deliver around 30% more than what is available now,” he told AIN.

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The agreement between Jekta and ZeroAvia involves joint development and certification of the power generation system for the PHA-ZE 100, including inverters, electronic components, and a hydrogen tank and fuel system. ZeroAvia has already tested its 600-kilowatt ZA600 powertrain on a Dornier 228 aircraft as part of its efforts to convert regional airliners to hydrogen.

ZeroAvia is also developing a 2-megawatt powerplant capable of powering larger aircraft carrying up to 80 or 90 passengers. The company has created various low- and high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell systems for different applications.

“By working with ZeroAvia and defining a suitable fuel cell system, we can offer our potential operator clients the choice of two fuel systems,” Alafinov said. “The hydrogen system delivers a viable alternative to electric battery power that promises a significant increase in the range of the PHA-ZE 100, which will suit operators serving longer regional routes. In contrast, the battery power option will suit short-range missions and operators flying in locations where electric power is more cost-effective and accessible.”

Jekta anticipates demand for its new-generation seaplane from prospective operators in Asia and the Middle East.