ZeAero% Completes the Design of its Novel ZERA Hydrogen Propulsion System Prototype
Bristol, UK, 28th August 2026 – ZeAero% (Zero Emissions Aerospace) announced that it has completed its final Critical Design Review (CDR) of its novel ZERA hydrogen propulsion system prototype today.
Following a series of critical design reviews, the ZeAero% team, in conjunction with its partners, concluded the design of its novel ZERA hydrogen propulsion system prototype. Passing the final CDR marks a significant programme milestone, demonstrating that the propulsion system design satisfies its requirements, meets all applicable safety and certification objectives, and is ready to transition into manufacturing. This achievement reflects the successful completion of detailed design activities and technical evaluations across the programme, including critical technical reviews of each propulsion sub-system. These reviews confirmed each sub-system's maturity and readiness for manufacture, providing confidence in the overall propulsion system design.
This marks a major milestone for the development under the Sparrowhawk Project, a partnership with the UK’s Aerospace Technology Institute and Innovate UK. It enables a clear path towards full-scale prototype production, with many components and equipment already well advanced in manufacture.
Commenting on the milestone, Matthew Orchard, CEO of ZeAero% said, “This milestone is a result of an outstanding effort of our team and partner companies who have worked with us over several years to develop this novel propulsion system. Their passion, innovation and commitment have been central in getting us here today.”
With the design now complete, ZeAero% is targeting completion of its first ZERA propulsion system by Q1 2027 to enter advanced ground test programme to validate system performance and support the next phase of development.
@ZeAero @Hydrogen Aviation
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 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.
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.
Contacts for Media
info@zeaero.co.uk