FutureFlight
Universal Hydrogen Begins Certification Process To Convert ATR Airliners
The California start-up plans to supply liquid hydrogen for its fuel cell electric propulsion system in preloaded modules delivered to the aircraft.
Universal Hydrogen has flown a Dash 8 aircraft with its fuel cell electric propulsion system.
Universal Hydrogen has already flown a Dash 8 aircraft with its fuel cell electric propulsion system. (Image: Universal Hydrogen)

The FAA has accepted Universal Hydrogen’s application for a supplemental type certificate to convert ATR 72 regional airliners to use its fuel cell electric propulsion system. The U.S. air safety regulator this week issued the California-based start-up a G-1 issue paper, which marks the first step to establishing the criteria for certifying the system, which will be fueled by liquid hydrogen delivered to aircraft in pre-filled modules.

Earlier this year, Universal Hydrogen achieved a first flight with a hydrogen-powered Dash 8 aircraft. It is now starting a program of ground and flight tests to generate the data it will need to demonstrate compliance with requirements that the FAA is expected to confirm in the coming months.