FutureFlight
Cranfield Aerospace Integrates Hydrogen Fuel Cell Powertrain into Aircraft Nacelle
The company's partner, aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman, is seeking new investors to ensure its survival.
Cranfield Aerospace plans to convert the Britten-Norman Islander aircraft to hydrogen propulsion.
Cranfield Aerospace has integrated its hydrogen fuel cell system into the nacelle of an aircraft. (Photo: Charles Alcock/AIN)

Cranfield Aerospace Solutions has integrated its hydrogen fuel cell powertrain into the nacelle of a testbed aircraft as it prepares to ground-test the technology it aims to use to produce hydrogen-powered regional airliners. The UK company said the integration of the 240-kilowatt propulsion system is the first step in preparing for ground tests that could lead to flight tests with a technology demonstrator by the end of 2024.

Announcing the integration of the hydrogen fuel cells and electric motors on March 7, Cranfield Aerospace said performing the integration on a testbed has meant that it will not have to complete a fundamental redesign for the production aircraft. The company has been working with Britten-Norman on plans to convert its nine-passenger Islander aircraft and last year showed an example of the twin turboprop in its new engineering hangar at Cranfield in southern England.