ZeroAvia, a developer of electric aviation propulsion systems, has signed an agreement with FlightSafety International to develop training resources for pilots and maintenance technicians to support the adoption of hydrogen-electric propulsion technologies.

The two partners aim to develop training resources, such as flight simulators and digital learning platforms, that will prepare the aviation industry for the entry of fuel cell electric aircraft, enabling faster market adoption once the aircraft receives certification. The two companies, in dialogue with regulators, will also explore future governance of training for new, clean alternative propulsion technologies.

Through the flight testing of its 19-seat Dornier 228 testbed, ZeroAvia has garnered unique experience in both pilot operations and integration as well as maintenance related to hydrogen-electric aircraft engines. In addition, through its work with more than a dozen airports on planning their future hydrogen usage and via the in-house development of its own smart hydrogen production and mobile storage and dispensing refuelling vehicles, ZeroAvia has a strong body of knowledge around airport ground operations relating to hydrogen.

FlightSafety International has created and delivered safety-focused aviation training for nearly 75 years. It has worked with virtually every business jet and engine manufacturer to prepare pilots and maintenance technicians for every flight scenario, elevating the safety of the entire industry.

ZeroAvia recently announced it has received an FAA G-1 issue paper for its 600kW electric propulsion system and targets the full ZA600 hydrogen-electric powertrain for entry-in-service within the next two years, before scaling to a multi-megawatt powertrain for large regional aircraft. The company has accrued over 2,000 engine pre-orders from major commercial airlines, including American, United and Alaska Airlines, with American committing to a conditional purchase order in July last year.

Sergey Kiselev, chief business officer, ZeroAvia, says: “As we look towards certification and entry-in-service of our first engines and then scaling up the technology into larger aircraft, it is essential we work with the best partners to prepare our customer airlines and other organisations. FlightSafety International's enthusiasm for hydrogen-electric technology, matched to its expertise and reach, is another check mark that the industry can and will manage a transition to clean, efficient and affordable propulsion systems.”

Nate Speiser, executive vice president of sales and marketing, FlightSafety International, adds: “FlightSafety has always been at the forefront of aviation safety. As the industry explores viable options for clean air travel, we are committed to developing training that provides peace of mind to flight operations and their passengers. We are confident that ZeroAvia has the expertise to bring its vision of zero-emission engines to market, and we are proud to establish the training for this innovative type of aircraft.”