Cranfield Aerospace Solutions
Hydrogen-Electric Technology Partner
MONTE is Cranfield Aerospace Solutions’ recommended financing partner, and has signed a Letter of Intent to purchase 40 modification kits to convert Britten-Norman Islanders to hydrogen-electric power.
Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS) is an aerospace market leader in rapid prototyping of new aerospace concepts, and modifications to existing aerospace platforms. CAeS are currently working on “Project Fresson” – an initiative set to deliver the world’s first fully certified truly green passenger carrying aircraft using hydrogen fuel cell technology. CAeS is working up to the design and manufacture of a new-build, 19-seater and 75-seater green aircraft.
Project Fresson has started with converting a Britten-Norman Islander 9-seat aircraft by transforming its propulsion system from conventional fossil fuel to that of gaseous hydrogen via a fuel cell and electric motor. The end solution will deliver carbon emissions free commercial air travel and is planned to be certified for passenger flight in 2026.
In September 2023, MONTE signed a three-party agreement with CAeS and Australian air charter company Torres Strait Air to convert up to ten Britten-Norman Islander aircraft to hydrogen-electric power.
CAeS is based at Cranfield Airport, Bedfordshire, UK where the company has access to some of the UK’s most advanced aviation test and research facilities.