Safran has launched a research partnership with ZeroAvia to advance hydrogen-electric propulsion technologies for aviation, focusing on advanced high-temperature fuel cells. The collaboration was outlined during Farnborough Airshow coverage and centres on Safran’s electrification work, including certification of its ENGINeUS electric propulsion system, rather than any equity investment in the UK hydrogen aircraft developer.
The partnership forms part of Safran’s wider hydrogen and electrification roadmap, with both companies aiming to accelerate the maturation of fuel cell electric propulsion systems for future aviation applications. ZeroAvia has been developing hydrogen-electric powertrains for regional aircraft and related aerospace uses, while Safran brings propulsion, electrification and test expertise into the programme.
Safran CTO Éric Dalbiès linked the tie-up to the group’s existing propulsion and certification progress, framing it as a way to speed zero-emission technology development. No evidence has emerged of Safran taking a stake in ZeroAvia, and the available reporting describes the relationship strictly as a technology collaboration.