Ecojet Airlines Delays Launch to 2025, Focuses on Green Hydrogen
Ecojet Airlines, formerly Fresh Airlines, has revised its launch timeline, with plans to begin operations in 2025. The airline, headquartered in Edinburgh, had initially targeted an early 2024 launch with flights between Edinburgh and Southampton. However, according to CEO Brent Smith, the decision to delay stems from a desire to ensure that everything is meticulously prepared before takeoff.
The airline, which promises to cut CO2 emissions significantly in the long run, had previously announced its goal to become the world’s first fully electric airline. Despite the delay, Smith remains committed to this vision, stating that the team is working hard to “get it right.” The company aims to launch with ATR72-600 aircraft, known for their fuel efficiency and lower carbon emissions compared to traditional aircraft.
New Launch Date and Operational Focus
Initially, Ecojet Airlines planned a 2024 launch with traditional ATR72-600 aircraft. However, the airline’s commitment to long-term sustainability and carbon reduction has shifted the launch date to 2025. Smith emphasized that while the team initially believed the earlier timeline was achievable, they realized additional work was required to meet their ambitious environmental goals. The delay will allow the airline to fine-tune its operations and technologies to ensure it launches with maximum efficiency and environmental responsibility.
Smith also revealed that Ecojet has applied for an air operator’s certificate (AOC) from the UK Civil Aviation Authority, a critical step before commencing commercial operations. In addition, the start-up is awaiting its IATA designation and callsigns, which will be announced soon.
Hydrogen-Electric Plans
Ecojet’s long-term vision includes operating hydrogen-electric aircraft. The airline plans to operate DHC-6 Twin Otters, which will be retrofitted with hydrogen-electric engines developed by ZeroAvia, a leader in sustainable aviation technology. However, Smith noted that these aircraft are unlikely to enter service during the first year or two of operations.
Dale Vince, co-owner of Ecojet and a British green energy entrepreneur, has championed the idea of retrofitting older aircraft with hydrogen-electric engines. Vince believes that this initiative could save up to 90,000 tonnes of carbon emissions per year, contributing significantly to the airline’s sustainability goals.
Ecojet’s first commercial flights using green hydrogen are expected to begin in 2026, pending the approval of ZeroAvia’s ZA600 powertrain. This hydrogen-electric engine is set to power the DHC-6 Twin Otter, with the first entry into service planned for the Cessna 208B Caravan in 2026.
ZeroAvia Partnership and Fleet Expansion
At the 2023 Farnborough International Airshow, Ecojet announced a major agreement with ZeroAvia to purchase up to 62 ZA2000 hydrogen-electric powertrains, 22 of which are firm orders and 40 options. These powertrains are intended for use in Ecojet’s ATR72-600 fleet, with the ZA2000 expected to enter service by 2027.
This partnership with ZeroAvia underscores Ecojet’s commitment to leading the way in zero-emission aviation. While traditional ATR72-600 aircraft will be used initially, the long-term plan is to transition to hydrogen-powered engines, further reducing the airline’s environmental footprint.
Strategic Investments and Shareholders
In September 2023, business accelerator AMG Ventures, led by industry veteran Peter Davies, purchased a minority stake in Ecojet, further bolstering the airline’s growth prospects. Other key shareholders include CEO Brent Smith, a former flybe pilot, and Dale Vince, whose expertise in green energy aligns with Ecojet’s sustainability-driven business model.
As Ecojet prepares for its 2025 launch, the airline’s focus on sustainability and innovative technology positions it as a future leader in eco-friendly air travel.
Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com