Dash 8 aircraft to get 2MW hydrogen retrofit as flight tests near

Dutch start-up Conscious Aerospace is rapidly developing a 2MW-class hydrogen fuel cell powertrain aimed at retrofitting the De Havilland Canada Dash 8-300 regional aircraft, with flight tests planned within three years. The company emphasizes this retrofit as a near-term, lower-emissions solution for regional aviation rather than a distant, long-range alternative. The development involves key partners including Aeronamic, EH Group (fuel cell supplier), and Senior Aerospace, with plans to conduct ground tests at the Dutch aerospace institute NLR’s hydrogen facility. An iron bird test rig resembling the production system, targeting 2.1MW peak output, is expected in about two years, while a preliminary design review is anticipated within months. Challenges remain in selecting an electric motor supplier and optimizing thermal management to balance aircraft weight and aerodynamic drag. The project has received significant backing, including €73 million ($84 million) from the Dutch government’s green aviation initiative, and Conscious Aerospace is advancing its Series A funding round with