ZeroAvia secures FAA certification basis for 600kW electric propulsion system
EVERETT, Wash. - ZeroAvia in Everett, Wash., announced that it has reached consensus with the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) on the Certification Basis for its 600kW electric propulsion system (EPS). The company received a G-1 Issue Paper (stage 2) that formally confirms the agreement.
The G-1 Issue Paper marks a significant step toward the final certification of ZeroAvia’s EPS with the FAA and the company’s first full hydrogen-electric powertrain certification with the UK Civil Aviation Authority. The document establishes the airworthiness regulations for ZeroAvia’s EPS, allowing the company to validate its design requirements.
ZeroAvia’s 600kW EPS integrates the company’s proprietary inverter and electric motor technology to create a high-efficiency electric engine with fault tolerance and high specific power. The system includes four 200kW continuous power bidirectional inverters that convert DC power to AC for the direct-drive motor, which operates at 2,200 rpm. The 600kW EPS is intended for use in battery, hybrid, and fuel-cell electric fixed-wing aircraft, rotorcraft, and uncrewed aerial vehicles.
Related: ZeroAvia, KLM Plan demonstration flight using hydrogen-electric engines
The EPS is part of the broader ZA600 hydrogen-electric powertrain, designed for up to 20-seat commercial aircraft. ZeroAvia is in discussions to supply the propulsion system separately to other companies developing clean aviation technologies. In 2023, the company opened a 136,000-square-foot Propulsion Center of Excellence in Everett, Wash., to manufacture electric propulsion systems.
ZeroAvia continues to develop fuel cells, power electronics, and electric motor technology through its vertically integrated approach. In May 2024, the company launched a component offering to support emerging electric air transport applications.
