27 September 2023 — Universal Hydrogen Co., a pioneering aerospace company, has embarked on an ambitious journey that promises to revolutionize the aviation industry. Today, the company held the kickoff event of its two-year flight test and maturation campaign for hydrogen-powered regional aircraft, spotlighting the future of sustainable aviation.
“It’s truly exciting to see Universal Hydrogen’s zero emission plane flying over California’s skies,” says Angelina Galiteva, ARCHES CEO. “It’s a great example of how California-based companies like Universal Hydrogen are working to alleviate the impacts of climate change and improve local air quality all while bringing tangible community benefits like good paying jobs and technological innovation to California.”
“We look forward to partnering with Universal Hydrogen, as part of the Alliance for Renewable Clean Hydrogen Energy Systems (ARCHES) hydrogen hub, to make zero emission flight a commercial reality for everyone!”
Record-Setting Start
Earlier in March 2023, Universal Hydrogen achieved a milestone with the inaugural flight of the largest hydrogen fuel cell-powered airplane. This aviation marvel is also noted for being the largest airplane to rely mainly on hydrogen. Not stopping at this significant achievement, June 2023 saw the successful ferrying of this aircraft from Moses Lake, Washington, to Mojave, California.
This journey unveiled several “firsts” and showcased the expanded capabilities of the hydrogen fuel cell powertrain. As of now, 10 such test flights have been conducted, setting the stage for the company’s ambition of commercial entry by 2026.
“Aerospace Valley continues to operate on the cutting edge of flight technology,” emphasizes California Assemblyman Tom Lackey. “The Mojave Air & Space Port has a long-standing history of innovation that we are very proud of.
“This partnership with Universal Hydrogen will not only benefit the region but will also keep California competitive in sustainable energy for our future.”
First Flight Highlights
The kickoff flight took to the skies for approximately 20 minutes. During this time, the aircraft ascended to 5,000 feet MSL, retracting its landing gear and flaps.
The flight took place at the Mojave Air & Space Port. (Image Courtesy of Universal Hydrogen)
On its return, the airplane made several passes over the airport, demonstrating the potential noise level reduction with the conventional engine throttled down while maintaining the hydrogen powertrain at full throttle. This highlighted one of the key benefits of fuel cell-electric propulsion – reduced noise pollution.
Looking Ahead
The next two years will be crucial for Universal Hydrogen. The campaign’s initial phase will be centered around optimizing the hydrogen fuel cell powertrain. This involves introducing new components, notably an aviation-grade turbocompressor custom-developed for this purpose.
Once incorporated, this will enable flights up to 25,000 feet MSL, comparable to the operating capacity of the Dash 8.
The second phase will unveil Universal Hydrogen’s patented modular liquid hydrogen fuel storage system. The culmination of the campaign will see the onset of certification testing, ensuring the aircraft’s configuration meets all FAA-mandated airworthiness and safety prerequisites.
A significant leap in this direction was recently achieved when the FAA released the G-1 issue paper, a first for the aviation sector, outlining the certification basis for hydrogen-powered commercial passenger aircraft.
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