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Jekta has chosen ZeroAvia’s fuel cell power generation system as the basis for its planned PHA-ZE 100 hydrogen-electric amphibious aircraft. The Swiss start-up, which announced the agreement on Monday at the Farnborough International Airshow, intends to bring the latest version of the 19-passenger seaplane to market after it wins certification of an initial battery-electric model.
The hydrogen-powered version of the PHA-ZE 100 will fly to a range of up to around 326 nm. Jekta aims to build a full-scale prototype in 2027, by which time the company believes that improved battery technology means it could deliver improved performance. The company plans to gain EASA type certification in 2029.
According to Jekta CEO George Alafinov, his engineering team is advancing design work on the PHA-ZE 100 despite uncertainty over a decision on battery packs. He pointed out that MagniX’s recent surprise launch of its Samson battery, which offers an energy density of 300 watt-hours per kilogram (Wh/kg), is evidence of the fast-changing technology environment. “That was a real curveball because it would deliver around 30% more than what is available now,” he told AIN.
Jekta’s agreement with ZeroAvia calls for the two companies to jointly develop and certify the power generation system for the PHA-ZE 100, including the inverters, electronic components, and a hydrogen tank and fuel system. ZeroAvia has already flown its 600-kilowatt ZA600 powertrain on a Dornier 228 testbed aircraft as part of its plans to convert multiple regional airliners to hydrogen.
ZeroAvia also is working on a 2-megawatt powerplant that could power a larger aircraft carrying up to 80 or 90 passengers. The company has developed a range of low- and high-temperature proton exchange membrane fuel cell systems for various 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 sees demand for its new-generation seaplane from prospective operators in Asia and the Middle East.