Universal Hydrogen Dash 8-300 Operates Its Second Flight

Universal Hydrogen Dash 8-300 - Photo credit: Universal Hydrogen

On June 5th, the hydrogen-powered turboprop aircraft of Universal Hydrogen, De Havilland Canada Dash 8-300, N330EN, completed its second flight. 

#LightningMcClean took to the skies for its second flight, soaring to 5,000 ft during its 30 minute flight and expanding the flight envelope to 170 knots indicated airspeed (KIAS). New heights in hydrogen aviation! pic.twitter.com/VbcFuvXOQI

— Universal Hydrogen Co. (@Universal_H2) June 8, 2023

The flight took off from Grant County International Airport (MWH) in Moses Lake, Washington, and lasted 30 minutes.

Universal Hydrogen Dash 8-300 (N330EN)

Universal Hydrogen's first flight of the aircraft, affectionately known as "Lightning McClean," took place in March 2023, encompassing a 15-minute flight. During this initial flight, the hydrogen-powered regional airliner reached a maximum altitude of 3,500 feet. However, at that time, only one of the turboprop engines operated using hydrogen, while the other relied on traditional jet fuel.

Universal Hydrogen plans to introduce the Dash 8-300 into commercial passenger service by 2025 to obtain certification. Furthermore, the company intends to convert an additional regional turboprop, the ATR 72, to run on hydrogen, further solidifying its commitment to sustainable aviation. The first flight of the converted aircraft in March 2023 attracted the presence of Connect Airlines and Amelia, two prominent carriers from the United States and Europe, respectively.

As of March 2023, Universal Hydrogen has amassed an impressive order backlog of 247 aircraft from 16 customers. Additionally, they have secured over $1 billion in conversions backlog and anticipate fuel services valued at more than $2 billion in the decade following 2025. These figures highlight the industry's growing recognition of hydrogen as a crucial element in reducing carbon emissions and fostering a sustainable aviation sector.

Universal Hydrogen's recent achievements in hydrogen-powered aviation, including the successful second flight of the Dash 8-300, signify a significant step forward in revolutionizing the future of air travel. With ambitious plans, cutting-edge technology, and strong industry support, Universal Hydrogen is well-positioned to lead toward a cleaner and greener aviation industry.