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Britten-Norman, Cranfield Aerospace To Merge in Pursuit of Hydrogen Fuel

The two British firms are eyeing hydrogen-powered regional, transport-category jets by 2026.

A concept image of Britten-Norman and CAeS’s hydrogen-powered Islander model. [Credit: Britten-Norman]
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Key Takeaways:

  • British aircraft manufacturer Britten-Norman and hydrogen propulsion pioneer Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS) are merging to create a market leader in green aircraft manufacturing.
  • The combined entity aims to certify hydrogen-powered versions of Britten-Norman's Islander aircraft, targeting the launch of a hydrogen-powered regional jet by 2026.
  • This initiative is driven by increasing airline demand for zero-emission aircraft and global climate targets, positioning the new company to accelerate the aviation industry's transition to sustainable flight.
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A proposed merger between a pair of British firms—one a longtime aircraft manufacturer and the other a pioneer in alternative propulsion systems—could hold the key to an aviation first.

The U.K.’s Britten-Norman and and Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS) last week signed a heads-of-terms agreement outlining a merger that is expected to be completed in mid-2023, clearing the way for the companies to launch a hydrogen-powered regional transport-category jet by 2026.

Jack Daleo

Jack is a staff writer covering advanced air mobility, including everything from drones to unmanned aircraft systems to space travel—and a whole lot more. He spent close to two years reporting on drone delivery for FreightWaves, covering the biggest news and developments in the space and connecting with industry executives and experts. Jack is also a basketball aficionado, a frequent traveler and a lover of all things logistics.

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