Imagine skies where every flight advances sustainability. Dutch innovation is making this vision a reality, with Fokker Next Gen and Elysian at the forefront of green aviation. These pioneers are merging sustainability with cutting-edge technology through hydrogen and electric-powered aircraft. How close are we to transforming the aviation industry into an eco-friendly future? Join Sky Hunters as we explore the groundbreaking endeavors of these Dutch companies, paving the way for a new era of responsible aviation. Welcome to the future of flying—clean, green, and sustainable.
In a pioneering endeavor toward achieving carbon-neutral aviation, two Dutch companies, Fokker Next Gen and Elysian, are leading the charge with innovative and sustainable aircraft solutions. Fokker Next Gen’s ambitious vision revolves around creating a zero-emission aircraft capable of carrying 120-150 passengers, up to 2,500 kilometers. Currently, the company is in the developmental phase of transforming a Fokker 100 into a hydrogen-powered demonstrator. Its aim is to showcase the viability of hydrogen jet engines and drive advancements in cleaner aviation technologies.
Crucially, Fokker Next Gen has formed a strategic collaboration with Dassault Systèmes, a Dutch pioneer in 3D software and Product Lifecycle Management solutions. This partnership leverages the cutting-edge 3DEXPERIENCE platform to establish a comprehensive digital ecosystem for the aviation value chain. This includes the creation of a virtual twin of the aircraft, aligning with systems engineering principles. The collaboration signifies a firm commitment to reshaping and greening the aviation industry by integrating hydrogen propulsion and state-of-the-art digital twin technology.
Juriaan Kellermann, CEO of Fokker Next Gen, expresses confidence in the collaboration’s transformative potential, highlighting its role in paving the way for sustainable aviation. This joint effort positions itself as a beacon of hope for a more eco-friendly aviation future, poised to inspire global environmental awareness.
Andrea Spiriti, Director of Sky Hunters notes: “These advancements in sustainable aviation are not just about technological breakthroughs; they represent the future of talent in the aerospace industry. As we move towards greener skies, the demand for professionals who can navigate the complexities of eco-friendly aviation technologies will skyrocket. At Sky Hunters, we’re keenly observing these shifts, recognizing the critical role of pioneering talent in shaping a sustainable future.'”
On a parallel front, Dutch startup Elysian is challenging conventional wisdom in the realm of battery-powered aircraft. Elysian proposes the development of a groundbreaking 90-seat, 500-mile range all-electric airliner, departing from the belief that battery limitations confine electric aircraft to short-range regional flights. The company’s unique approach involves maximizing battery weight fraction, addressing misconceptions about energy mass, realistic lift-to-drag ratios, reserve requirements, and scalability. Presented at the American Institute of Aeronautics and Astronautics’ SciTech conference, the E9X electric airliner aims to decarbonize aviation with a cruise range of up to 1,000 km.
Collaborating with renowned institutions such as the German Aerospace Center (DLR) and Dutch universities, Elysian is in a risk-reduction phase, aiming to finalize key technical challenges by the end of 2024. The ambitious project aligns with a broader industry effort to revolutionize sustainable aviation, with an eye on economic competitiveness with narrowbody aircraft and a target for entry into service between 2032 and 2035. Both Dutch initiatives not only push the boundaries of technological innovation but also underscore a shared commitment to sustainable aviation, inspiring change on a global scale.
How can each of us contribute to the acceleration towards a greener aviation future? Get in touch with Sky Hunters to access talent that can support the transition.
