ZeroAvia and Safran have announced the launch of a collaboration dedicated to hydrogen-electric propulsion technologies for aviation. This partnership combines ZeroAvia’s cutting-edge expertise in aerospace fuel cell systems with Safran’s historic pedigree in propulsion, electrification, clean aviation innovation, design and test activities of aero-native fuel cell background. Together, the two companies will accelerate the technological development of hydrogen-electric power across several aviation applications.

This partnership between Safran and ZeroAvia will act as a catalyst in accelerating the maturation of technologies for fuel cell electric propulsion systems. The partners will investigate in particular collaboration on advanced high-temperature fuel cells paving the way for future demanding aviation applications.

Christine Ourmières-Widener, Executive Chair of ZeroAvia, said, “Hydrogen-electric propulsion has the potential to transform aerospace and defense applications, and collaboration is essential to accelerating that transition. By working hand-in-hand with Safran, we are helping to advance technologies that are critical to building a better, cleaner future for flight.”

Éric Dalbiès, Chief Technology Officer of Safran, added, “Safran has achieved world-leading progress in aerospace electrification, including the world-first certification of our ENGINeUS electric propulsion system. Furthermore, we are pursuing a solid technology roadmap toward the maturation of High-Temperature hydrogen fuel cells for aviation.

Collaborating with ZeroAvia is an exciting opportunity to build on these advances, foster synergies, and further drive innovation in zero-emission technologies.”

This collaboration builds on the industry’s growing traction toward hydrogen-powered aviation. It reflects both companies’ shared commitment to developing the technologies required to support the aviation sector’s long-term decarbonization goals.