#Switzerland #battery technology #H55 #Electric Aviation #Sion

H55 Breaks New Ground with Propulsion Battery Module Certification

H55, a pioneering force in electric aviation based in Switzerland, has recently reached a significant milestone by successfully completing all the required certification tests for propulsion battery modules mandated by aviation regulators. This marks the first instance in the industry where such comprehensive testing has been completed, addressing a longstanding hurdle that has impeded the safe commercialization of electric aircraft.

The aviation industry has long grappled with the challenge of proving that high-energy propulsion batteries can safely withstand extreme failure scenarios. H55’s recent accomplishments, finalized on December 19, 2025, under the supervision of EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency), confirms their propulsion battery systems meet stringent safety standards. This achievement not only positions H55 as a leader but also sets a new benchmark for future electric aviation programs.

Certification Journey

The certification process involved rigorous testing procedures aimed at evaluating the performance and safety of the battery modules. H55's testing campaign demonstrated their commitment to engineering solutions that align with aviation safety requirements. By embedding monitoring and mitigation measures at the cell level, they ensured that every potential failure could be contained, marking a critical progression in electric aviation safety.

H55’s approach is transformative for the industry, establishing a clear and repeatable process for certifying battery technology across various aircraft designs. This framework significantly lowers the risks for manufacturers, operators, and financiers, enabling seamless integration of aviation-safe battery systems into existing and future aircraft programs.

Technical Innovations and Safety Enhancements

H55's propulsion battery system is distinguished by its unique Energy Storage System design, which incorporates monitoring systems and safety protocols directly within the battery cells. This innovative architecture enhances overall efficiency and longevity, making the technology not just safe but also reliable for extensive use in commercial aviation.

The certification tests were conducted in a certified production facility using hardware that conforms to serial production standards, assuring that this is not just a prototype endeavor but a viable commercial product ready for deployment. The success of these tests underscores H55’s operational expertise accrued over two decades of experience in electric aviation, having flown numerous electric aircraft with a flawless safety record.

Industry Impact and Future Directions

André Borschberg, the Executive Chairman and Co-Founder of H55, emphasized that their mission has always been to make electric aviation certifiable. This milestone validates their approach towards prioritizing safety during the design and manufacturing processes, reinforcing the idea that electric aviation can be developed to meet the same rigorous certification standards as traditional aircraft.

Rob Solomon, CEO of H55, highlighted that this achievement indicates a significant turning point for electric aviation. By addressing certification bottlenecks, H55 opens up new opportunities for both commercial deployment and insurability of electric aircraft. Their battery modules can now be considered real assets with transparent risk profiles, facilitating wider acceptance in the aviation sector.

Collaboration with Regulatory Authorities

In a complementary move, H55 is collaborating with both EASA and the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to ensure that their certification processes are recognized across borders. This mutual recognition is critical for H55 as they expand their market presence in the United States, providing an additional layer of credibility to their products.

Conclusion

The successful completion of these certification tests heralds a new era in electric aviation. With H55 leading the way, the shift from speculative development towards a certifiable industrial standard becomes increasingly tangible. As the aviation industry embraces electric propulsion technologies, H55’s innovations will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the future of air travel.