Manufacture Completed of the First Hardware for the Sparrowhawk Prototype of ZeAero’s Propulsion System
Bristol, UK, 19th June 2026 – The first hardware for the prototype of ZeAero’s novel new Liquid Hydrogen Propulsion System for aviation have been completed and were delivered to ZeAero’s assembly facility today as part of the SPARROWHAWK project supported by the Aerospace Technology Institute and Innovate UK. This innovative propulsion system from ZeAero% will enable commercial flight without polluting emissions and this propulsion system has been specifically designed to provide superior payload-range and good economics for regional airline operations.
Reflecting on the achievement Matthew Orchard, CEO and Founder of ZeAero% commented, “Moving into the phase of hardware delivery for the SPARROWHAWK project prototype is very exciting, as we see the fruits of the hard work of the team over the last years come to realisation. The activity towards the prototype build has already validated much of our work to date, including the integration solutions, performance projections and manufacturing routes. As we move forward with the prototype, the test program will be used to demonstrate the effective operation of liquid hydrogen propulsion systems for aviation and their potential for effective airline networks and economics. This prototype system is an important step along the path to real life commercial hydrogen aviation operations.”
Commenting on the success, Gary Elliott, CEO, Aerospace Technology Institute, said, "Projects like SPARROWHAWK led by ZeAero show how SMEs are moving hydrogen propulsion from concept towards practical application. By developing critical components of a liquefied hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system and demonstrating their integration on the ground, the team is laying important foundations for zero-carbon emission regional flight. Through the ATI Programme, we are supporting the UK aerospace sector to build capability and advance the aircraft technologies of the future.”
The ATI Programme is delivered in partnership between Department for Business and Trade, Innovate UK and the Aerospace Technology Institute.
@ZeAero @Hydrogen Aviation @InnovateUK @Aerospace Technology Institute
About ZeAero% (Zero Emissions Aerospace)
ZeAero% is an aerospace engineering company founded by passionate and experienced aviation professionals committed to enabling practical zero‑emissions flight. The company specialises in developing liquid‑hydrogen fuel‑cell propulsion systems and zero‑emissions aircraft solutions for regional and business aviation. ZeAero% is designing, testing, and certificating novel products including the ZERA-Lite STC conversion and ZERA-19 aircraft to enable safe, practical and profitable hydrogen-powered operations.
About Innovate UK
Innovate UK, part of UK Research and Innovation, is creating a better future by inspiring, involving and investing in businesses developing life-changing innovations. We provide targeted sectors with expertise, facilities and funding to test, demonstrate and evolve their ideas, driving UK productivity and economic growth. Join our network and communities of innovators to realise the potential of your ideas and accelerate business growth. Innovate UK: inspiring business innovation.
About the Aerospace Technology Institute
The Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) is an independent not-for-profit organisation working in partnership with the UK government and industry to enhance the competitiveness of the UK aerospace sector through technology leadership and funding. Since 2014, the ATI Programme has invested over £4.2 billion of joint government-industry funding in a balanced portfolio of research and technology projects. The ATI Programme is delivered in partnership with the Department for Business and Trade and Innovate UK.
Contacts for Media
info@zeaero.co.uk