Startup regional airliner Ecojet has announced an agreement signed with ZeroAvia for up to 70 hydrogen-electric zero-emission engines, facilitated by ZeroAvia’s preferred lessor partner MONTE.
First announced in July 2023, Ecojet’s vision is to become what it describes as the world’s first electric airline, initially operating a conventionally-powered fleet before retrofitting its airframes with ZeroAvia’s proprietary ZA600 propulsion systems, slated for certification in 2025.
The newly-launched airline has also placed an order for the larger ZA2000 engine, designed for turboprops with up to 80 seats (such as the ATR72 and Dash 8 400), with an in-service entry target of 2027.
“We don’t have to give up flying to live a green lifestyle or to get to net zero as a country,” suggested Dale Vince, founder of Ecojet: adding that “the technology is here now and the planes are coming very soon”.
Ecojet is on track to become MONTE’s first confirmed customer, following a definitive purchase agreement between ZeroAvia and the lessor (signed in June) for 100 engines. “We are excited to be working with an operator that is aligned with our goals of decarbonizing regional aviation,” added Rishi Majithia, head of investment at MONTE.