Sir Geoffrey Clifton-Brown, MP for the Cotswolds, paid a visit to ZeroAvia, a developer of hydrogen-electric propulsion systems for commercial aircraft, based at the Cotswold Airport in Kemble. The aviation industry is the fastest-growing source of greenhouse gas emissions, the reason why there is a global push for green aviation and net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.

ZeroAvia is a leader in zero-emissions aviation, developing hydrogen-electric engines that use fuel cells to convert renewable hydrogen to electricity during flight, thus powering electric motors to fly the aircraft. ZeroAvia is starting with 9-19 seat aircraft by 2024, but by replacing conventional engines with hydrogen-electric powertrains, sustainable aviation is possible for 100-seat long-distance flights and beyond.

Commenting on the visit, Sir Geoffrey said:

“My recent visit follows one I made back in September with the Aviation Minister. I was impressed with the substantial progress they have made since then, now employing more than 70 high-skilled engineers, executives, and support staff at their site in Kemble. They have entered into partnership with some significant companies in the aviation industry to provide funding, expanding their UK operations. From what I saw during my visit it was clear that ZeroAvia will continue to go from strength to strength, especially with their exciting R&D and plans to manufacture the new hydrogen-electric engines and the future employment opportunities could be a huge boost for the local area. It is great to see companies in the Cotswolds developing innovative solutions to address the climate change challenge and help us achieve our net-zero targets.”