Beyond Aero Unveils Hydrogen-Powered Regional Aircraft

The aviation sector in Europe is aiming for climate neutrality by 2050, and French firm Beyond Aero is taking significant steps toward this goal with the development of an emission-free aircraft.

Beyond Aero has introduced the BYA-1, a hydrogen-powered regional aircraft designed to operate on electric propulsion generated by fuel cells. The company aims to have this innovative aircraft operational by 2030.

The BYA-1 was first unveiled at the Paris Air Show in 2023, where the company showcased its revised concept and final design.

This ten-seat regional aircraft is powered by two electric ducted fans located at the rear, with energy supplied by six fuel cells, each providing a maximum output of 400 kilowatts. This setup allows for a total peak power of 2.4 megawatts. Notably, the aircraft does not utilize batteries for energy storage.

Hydrogen serves as the fuel for the fuel cells, stored in six dedicated tanks. The total hydrogen storage capacity is 250 kilograms, enabling the aircraft to cover a distance of nearly 1,500 kilometers at a cruising speed of 575 km/h and an operational altitude of 26,000 feet (approximately 7,900 meters). This range allows the BYA-1 to service around 80% of intra-European routes, according to Beyond Aero.

Four of the hydrogen tanks will be positioned beneath the aircraft's fuselage, while the remaining two will be located at the tips of the wings. The hydrogen will be stored under high pressure, specifically at 700 bar, with refueling expected to take between 30 and 40 minutes.

One of the key advantages of this aircraft is its environmental impact; unlike conventional propulsion systems, the BYA-1 will produce only water vapor as a byproduct, eliminating harmful emissions. Additionally, the cost-effectiveness of hydrogen as a fuel source stands out. Beyond Aero estimates that green hydrogen will cost approximately 40 cents per nautical mile per seat, compared to sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), which can reach 1.70 euros for bio-kerosene and 2.60 euros for synthetic kerosene. Traditional jet fuel, while cheaper at 30 cents per nautical mile per seat, does not offer the environmental benefits of hydrogen.

The fuel cell propulsion system has already been tested successfully after being integrated into a conventional aircraft last year. Beyond Aero plans to certify the BYA-1 by 2030, and the company has reportedly received letters of intent for the purchase of approximately 100 of these aircraft.