ZeroAvia has secured a conditional order from MEHAIR, adding up to 20 ZA600 hydrogen-electric engines to its existing 2,000+ pre-orders. MEHAIR, known as Maritime Energy Heli Air Services Pvt Ltd., initiated services in 2011 across the Indian sub-continent, starting with the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Now, with plans for expansion, MEHAIR aims to cover various sub-regional routes in India, utilizing both amphibian and wheeled aircraft.
To finance the acquisition and retrofitting of engines to their upcoming fleet of 10 Cessna Caravan aircraft, MEHAIR is exploring financing options, including potential partnerships with leasing companies. Notably, the company already has a relationship with MONTE as its preferred ZA600 lessor partner. Collaboratively, ZeroAvia and MEHAIR are also working towards establishing a fuel supply for the operator’s services throughout India.
ZeroAvia aims to certify the ZA600 by the end of 2025, working closely with the UK’s CAA and other regulators to ensure global harmonization and swift certification. India, aspiring to use hydrogen in aviation for its clean energy future, has set a net-zero target by 2070, with a significant goal of 5 million metric tons of hydrogen production annually by 2030.
India’s aviation sector is experiencing substantial growth, with passenger numbers more than doubling over the past decade. According to CAPA, India, the prediction is that passenger numbers will exceed 500 million annually by 2030. James Peck, Chief Customer Officer at ZeroAvia, emphasizes the critical role of clean flight technology in supporting the escalating demand for flights while ensuring progress toward net-zero goals remains on track.
Siddharth Verma, Managing Director of MEHAIR, underscores their alignment with the Government of India’s vision for sustainable aviation under the successful UDAN Scheme. Verma expresses excitement about pioneering a revolution in sustainable aviation through the partnership with ZeroAvia and the Government of India, aiming to provide seamless connectivity and boost local economies.
The unique aspect of hydrogen-electric engines, such as ZeroAvia’s ZA600, lies in their utilization of hydrogen in fuel cells to generate electricity, powering electric motors that turn the aircraft’s propellers. An environmentally friendly feature is that the only emission produced is water, aligning with the goal of achieving eco-friendly and sustainable aviation. This collaboration holds promise for a transformative impact on India’s aviation landscape, fostering growth with an environmentally conscious approach.