ZeroAvia has signed an agreement with Textron Aviation to develop hydrogen-electric, zero-emission powertrains for the Cessna Grand Caravan (208B) aircraft. ZeroAvia plans to obtain a Supplemental Type Certificate (STC) by 2025 to retrofit the turboprop with the ZA600 zero-emission powertrain, targeting commercial passenger and cargo operators.
Val Miftakhov, CEO, ZeroAvia, said: “The famous Cessna Grand Caravan is on track to be one the first airframes operating commercial services both cargo and passenger with hydrogen-electric, zero-emission engines. We applaud the visionary leadership of Textron Aviation in joining us to help transform a much-loved mainstay of sub-regional aviation into a symbol of sustainable transformation in aviation.”
Textron claims that the high-wing design of the Cessna Grand Caravan makes it a strong candidate for mounting hydrogen fuel tanks under the wings, ensuring operators can maintain seat capacity or cargo space, while transitioning to true zero emission propulsion systems. ZeroAvia has already announced several agreements with operators and lessors in relation to conversions of the Grand Caravan.