Hydrogen-powered aircraft 'Vertiia' poised to revolutionize aviation
Australian companies are playing their part in revolutionizing aviation. AMSL Aero's hydrogen-powered electric aircraft, Vertiia, begins testing and aims for commercial operation by 2027, promising significant advancements in sustainable aviation and extending the range of small aircraft to 1,000 km.
As climate change pressures industries to adopt greener technologies, the aviation sector is exploring innovative solutions like hydrogen-powered electric aircraft. Gigazine reports that Australian startup AMSL Aero is at the forefront, having begun testing its hydrogen fuel cell-powered electric aircraft, Vertiia. This aircraft extends the range of small aircraft to 1,000 km, far surpassing the 200 km limit of current battery technologies.
Commercial orders
Vertiia, capable of carrying up to five people, has already received commercial orders from Air Link, a regional airline in New South Wales. The deal is a critical step towards the aviation industry's goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. Matthew Klein, CEO of Air Link, emphasizes that hydrogen's extended range is essential for their operations.
The Vertiia is the first Australian-made aircraft to apply for Advanced Air Mobility (AAM) type certification through the Australian Civil Aviation Safety Authority (CASA). Its unique design, inspired by the box kite, allows for both vertical takeoff and fixed-wing flight, breaking new ground in the aviation field.
Testing is underway at a runway near Wellington, New South Wales, with commercial operations expected by 2027. According to the report by Gigazine, Air Link plans to use Vertiia for cargo and charter flights initially, expanding to scheduled routes later.
