Hydrogen-Powered Aviation Set to Take Off in New Zealand

A major breakthrough in hydrogen-powered aviation is underway, with Stralis Aircraft, Fabrum, and Ara Ake joining forces to develop and test liquid-hydrogen storage tanks and a fuel system for Stralis’ aircraft. This collaboration marks a significant step toward achieving Australasia’s first liquid-hydrogen-powered flight and accelerating the transition to zero-emission aviation.

Stralis Aircraft, an Australian company specializing in hydrogen-electric propulsion systems, will integrate Fabrum’s cutting-edge fuel technology into its aircraft. New Zealand-based Fabrum, a leader in zero-emission transition technology, is providing lightweight composite tanks and hydrogen dispensing systems essential for the aviation industry’s shift toward sustainability. The initiative is backed by Ara Ake, New Zealand’s future energy centre, and aligns with Fabrum’s recent establishment of a hydrogen testing facility at Christchurch International Airport.

Christopher Boyle, Managing Director of Fabrum, emphasized the project’s importance: “Our hydrogen liquefier provides a readily available supply of liquid hydrogen onsite, enabling us to validate the tanks and fuel system for Stralis’ fixed-wing fuel-cell electric aircraft. With Ara Ake’s support, we are excited to be at the forefront of advancing hydrogen-powered flight.”

This initiative also strengthens industry ties between New Zealand and Australia while advancing expertise in liquid-hydrogen storage, refuelling, and aircraft integration. Stralis’ innovative fuel-cell technology is designed to be significantly lighter than current alternatives, potentially enabling aircraft to fly up to ten times further than battery-electric solutions, all while reducing costs compared to fossil-fuel-powered planes.

Stuart Johnstone, co-founder and CTO of Stralis Aircraft, highlighted the impact of this collaboration: “This is a significant milestone for Stralis as we refine our hydrogen-electric propulsion technology and expand our liquid hydrogen capability. We look forward to driving innovation in hydrogen-electric aviation and forming new partnerships in New Zealand.”

Hydrogen, produced through renewable electricity-powered electrolysis, offers an energy density three times higher than sustainable aviation fuel and over 100 times greater than batteries. With a relatively fast refuelling process and high energy potential, hydrogen presents a compelling alternative for sustainable aviation.

Hydrogen-electric propulsion systems simplify aircraft operation by using hydrogen to power a fuel cell that generates electricity for an electric motor. With fewer moving parts and lower operating temperatures compared to conventional turbine engines, these systems could reduce engine maintenance costs by 40-60%. Additionally, they produce zero carbon emissions, releasing only water vapour, and operate with significantly lower noise levels.

With support from Ara Ake, Stralis and Fabrum are fast-tracking their efforts to bring this revolutionary technology to market. This collaboration represents more than just a technological advancement—it’s a critical step in making zero-emission aviation commercially viable in Australasia and beyond.

Photo Credit: Supplied
More information: Hydrogen electric flight prepares for lift-off in New Zealand