The Red Sea selects ZeroAvia for hydrogen-electric propulsion technology
ZeroAvia will explore converting Cessna Caravan Seaplanes using its hydrogen-electric propulsion technology.
ZeroAvia has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to partner with The Red Sea Development Company (TRSDC) to test and develop zero-emission travel across a new luxury tourism destination focusing on environmental sustainability and regeneration.
TRSDC plans to operate a fleet of around 30 seaplane variants of the Cessna Caravan to transport guests across the destination. ZeroAvia has been commissioned to explore retrofitting the planes with its powertrain technology and test its viability for offering clean, commercial travel.
Under the deal, TRSDC and ZeroAvia will work together to develop the technology, including collaborating on a roadmap for delivering the production, supply and infrastructure necessary to support hydrogen-powered air travel in Saudi Arabia.
The partnership is part of TRSDC’s ambition to offer fully sustainable connectivity across its destination, including zero-emission flights.
John Pagano, CEO of TRSDC, said, “Clean, green transport is fundamental to realizing that aim, which is why we’re working with forward-thinking partners such as ZeroAvia, to bring about a new way of travelling.”
James Peck, VP Business Development at ZeroAvia, said, “TRSDC recognizes the potential of zero-emission propulsion in ensuring that travel across the resort plays its part in the overall sustainability ambitions of the project. Trialing ZeroAvia’s 600kW hydrogen-electric powertrains for the Caravan means tourists could be taking these zero-emission flights to the destination by the middle of this decade.”
Andreas Flourou, Executive Director, Operations – Mobility at TRSDC, said, “As we gear up to welcome our first guests early next year, the topic of smart and sustainable mobility is a hot one.”
TRSDC was established to drive the development of The Red Sea Project, a luxury, regenerative tourism destination that will set new standards in sustainable development and position Saudi Arabia on the global tourism map. Its portfolio includes a recent acquisition of AMAALA.
