Surcar Airlines Selects ZeroAvia Engines for Clean Seaplane Flights in the Canary Islands
Canarian Airline signs up for zero-emission, hydrogen-electric engines to power Twin Otter seaplane variant
[Kemble, UK & Hollister, CA: August 2, 2023] — ZeroAvia today announced that it has signed an agreement to provide its ZA600 hydrogen-electric engines to new operator Surcar Airlines as it looks to bring green flights to the Canary Islands.
Surcar plans to use Twin Otter seaplanes retrofit with the ZA600 powertrain on sightseeing tours. The newly launched airline is backed by investors including the Danish carrier Nordic Seaplanes. Surcar Airlines is committed to spearheading the electrification of aviation to enable zero-emission flights in the Canary Islands. By pioneering captivating, green sightseeing flights, the company aims to inspire and drive other operators towards adopting sustainable practices, accelerating the transition to a cleaner future for the entire industry.
Surcar Airlines will begin operations with conventionally powered aircraft; the next step will be switching to hydrogen-electric engines to remove all in-flight emissions, providing huge additional reductions in climate and air quality impacts.
ZeroAvia is on track for certification over the next two to three years of the ZA600, 600kW engine for 9-19 seat aircraft over the next two to three years and has a Memorandum of Understanding with De Havilland of Canada, type certificate holder of the Twin Otter.
The European Union is targeting 55 percent reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, and Spain’s National Energy and Climate Plan aims to achieve an entirely carbon-neutral transport system by 2050. Such policy action is echoed in consumer attitudes. According to a survey conducted by the European Investment Bank, three-quarters of Europeans plan to fly less frequently in the future for environmental reasons. Delivering clean flight is a strategic imperative for the aviation industry.
ZeroAvia to Supply Hydrogen Engines for Clean Seaplane Flights
ZeroAvia has signed a deal to supply its ZA600 hydrogen-electric engines to new operator Surcar Airlines, enabling clean seaplane flights in the Canary Islands. Surcar plans to retrofit their Twin Otter seaplanes with the ZA600 powertrain for eco-friendly sightseeing tours. The Danish carrier, Nordic Seaplanes, among others, is backing Surcar Airlines in their mission to lead the electrification of aviation in the Canary Islands. ZeroAvia aims to certify the ZA600 engine for 9-19 seat aircraft within the next two to three years. This move aligns with the European Union's goal of reducing greenhouse gas emissions and Spain's plan for a carbon-neutral transport system. Aviation's future depends on delivering clean flight.
