Universal Hydrogen, Connect Airlines Plan ATR 72 Conversions

Universal Hydrogen said it has collected a firm order from prospective regional carrier Connect Airlines to covert 75 ATR 72-600s to hydrogen power.

Universal Hydrogen is working to convert regional airliners like the Dash 8 and the ATR72. (Image: Universal Hydrogen)

By Gregory Polek • Senior Editor

June 8, 2022

Universal Hydrogen said on Wednesday that it has collected a firm order from prospective Massachusetts-based regional carrier Connect Airlines to covert 75 ATR 72-600 regional turboprops to hydrogen power. Connect Airlines, which still awaits a Show Cause Order from the U.S. Department of Transportation to fly De Havilland Dash 8-400s from points between the Northeast and Midwest U.S. cities and Toronto’s Billy Bishop Airport, would take delivery of the first converted ATR in 2025, according to Universal. The latest contract between Connect Airlines and Universal follows a letter of intent announced last year that called for converting De Havilland Dash 8-300s.

A division of Boston-based Part 135 charter operator Waltzing Matilda Aviation, Connect Airlines also signed for purchase rights on another 25 ATR conversions. It says it has committed to becoming the world’s first “true” zero-emission airline.

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