Los Angeles start-up airline, Air Cahana, launched with a mission to decarbonize aviation has placed an order of 250 hydrogen-electric ZA2000 engines with ZeroAvia.
Air Cahana plans to deliver sustainable flight, beginning with Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF), and then adopt zero emission propulsion technology as the technology enters the market. The company is targeting operations of turboprops using ZeroAvia’s zero-emission propulsion systems, in order to play its part in delivering a third golden era of aviation powered by clean flight.
James Peck, Chief Customer Officer, ZeroAvia, said: “Launching a new airline is not a small challenge, but Air Cahana has an enormous advantage and can unlock a new market by being the earliest to realize the enormous operating savings and zero-emissions benefits of hydrogen-electric engines.”
Tony Thompson, CEO of Air Cahana, said: “With ZeroAvia's extensive flight testing and in-house IP around core technologies, we have the perfect alliance to achieve our vision. Together, we are poised to revolutionize the aviation industry, setting a new standard for a greener sky and delivering an unparalleled passenger experience. This innovative collaboration positions Cahana as the frontrunner in becoming the cleanest airline in the sky.”
ZeroAvia’s hydrogen-electric system for 40–80 seat aircraft is soon to be tested aboard a 76-seat Dash 8-400, with a target of certifying the technology for use with airlines like Air Cahana geared for regional travel as early as 2027. The system uses hydrogen fuel in fuel cells to generate electricity and thus power electric motors to fly the aircraft with effectively zero-emissions.