ZeroAvia today announced at the Farnborough International Airshow that ASL Aviation Holdings has signed a conditional purchase agreement for up to 20 of the former’s hydrogen-electric ZA2000 powertrains to power its fleet of ATR 72 turboprops.
The order comprises a firm commitment for 10 engines, with options for a further 10, building on a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the two companies made in November 2021. ASL has today committed to paying the deposits required to secure delivery slots, with ZeroAvia now having over 2000 pre-orders for its engines from a number of major airlines.
James Peck, ZeroAvia’s Chief Customer Officer, said that, “ASL is a major player in freight and beyond, and they are forging the pathway to a sustainable future for the industry, not least in leading in the adoption of new, zero-emission propulsion technologies. Our commercial agreements are crystallizing into firmer commitments and for those looking on, that should be a clear signal of the rapid and successful technical progress we are making to deliver clean propulsion systems.”
ASL’s Group Director of Change Management, Robert Somers, added that, “ASL has always believed that new lower or zero emissions propulsion technologies would be deployed first in the air cargo market, and as such of our responsibility as a global leader to explore how technologies such as ZeroAvia’s hydrogen-electric engines can improve aviation sustainability.”
ZeroAvia has so far flown more than 10 test-flights of its ZA600 powertrain, designed for 9-19 seat airliners, with entry-into-service (EIS) expected in 2026 once certified. The British-American manufacturer has tentatively suggested a 2027-8 EIS for the ZA2000 engine, but expects the certification process to be less complex for its second offering. ASL had previously signed a Letter of Intent to acquire rival Universal Hydrogen’s equivalent powertrains to power its ATR fleet, but this deal fell through last month following the announcement that Universal Hydrogen was to be wound-down.
Cianan Kelly entered the sphere of aviation journalism two years ago with his debut publication, Connecting the UK, which was met with acclaim by enthusiasts and industry professionals alike. He joined Fresh Aviation in late 2022 with the aim of contributing to high-quality aviation press and research, with a focus on sustainability and the regional aviation sector.