• Targeted Zero-Emission Flight by 2026: KLM and ZeroAvia aim to demonstrate a hydrogen-powered flight using ZeroAvia’s ZA2000 engines.
• Significant Climate Impact Reduction: Hydrogen-electric engines are expected to reduce climate impact by up to 90%.
• Strategic Collaboration for Sustainable Aviation: The project will advance hydrogen aircraft operations and support KLM’s sustainability goals.

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and ZeroAvia are partnering to demonstrate a zero-emission flight using ZeroAvia’s ZA2000 hydrogen-electric engines by 2026. This collaboration represents a significant step towards sustainable aviation.

Hydrogen-electric engines generate electricity through hydrogen fuel cells to power electric motors, turning aircraft propellers. The only emission is low-temperature water vapor, potentially reducing climate impact by up to 90% compared to kerosene-fueled flights.

The first major milestone is to conduct an A-to-B demonstration flight between two airport locations in 2026. Efforts include securing regulatory permits, ensuring liquid hydrogen fuel supply, and establishing fueling infrastructure.

KLM and ZeroAvia aim to provide a strong evidence base for adopting cleaner flights within KLM’s network and accelerate hydrogen aircraft development across the EU. This aligns with KLM’s commitment to sustainability, leveraging advanced technologies like hydrogen and electric aviation.

KLM’s maintenance divisions, along with Air France, are collaborating with ZeroAvia to develop effective maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) operations for hydrogen fuel cell planes. ZeroAvia has tested its ZA600 prototype on a Dornier 228 aircraft and advanced ground tests for the ZA2000 system.

“The world’s largest airlines are diving in to explore hydrogen-electric as a potential solution with increasing seriousness. We can’t wait to work with KLM, being an airline with such rich history, as we look towards a clean future for the industry.” – Sergey Kiselev, Chief Business Officer, ZeroAvia

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“KLM aims to be a front-runner in the journey towards a more sustainable future in aviation. That’s why we actively support and encourage innovation to drive industry change. When it comes to the future of zero-emission flights, KLM supports various technologies and innovations simultaneously. Together with our sector partners, we are conducting research on electric, hydrogen, and hybrid-powered flights and exploring ways to expedite these advancements.” – Maarten Koopmans, Managing Director KLM Cityhopper

The ZA2000 will support up to 80-seat regional turboprop aircraft, such as the ATR72 or Dash 8 400. With this collaboration, KLM and ZeroAvia are leading the way in sustainable aviation, providing a roadmap for the industry’s future.