#Switzerland #Safran #H55 #Sion #Bristell

H55 Partners with Safran for Electric Aircraft Propulsion

In an innovative step towards sustainable aviation, H55 has entered into a partnership with Safran Electrical & Power to integrate the ENGINeUS electric motor into its Bristell B23 Energic aircraft. This collaboration aims to develop certified electric propulsion solutions primarily for general aviation, which includes aircraft that meet the CS-23 / Part 23 Levels 1 and 2 certification.

The Collaboration Overview

The electric propulsion unit designed by Safran is equipped with the cutting-edge technology of the ENGINeUS electric motor, recognized by the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA). This essential collaboration capitalizes on the expertise of both companies: H55's proficiency in energy storage and propulsion systems and Safran’s long-standing experience in aviation electrification. The partnership is crucial in addressing the certification challenges that currently hinder the widespread adoption of electric aircraft.

H55, known for its innovative design and development in electric propulsion systems, collaborates with Safran to utilize the certified ENGINeUS engine to foster advancements in ensuring stringent aviation standards are met.

Addressing the Aviation Market Need

The Bristell B23 Energic is positioned as a pivotal model in the swiftly growing market for electric pilot training aircraft, with a considerable focus on reducing operational costs and achieving zero emissions during flights. With the aviation industry currently facing intense pressure to innovate and reduce its carbon footprint, the H55 and Safran alliance stands out as a forward-thinking initiative.

Safran will support H55 throughout the prototype testing phase and into production, expected to commence in 2027. Critical technical support will also be on offer throughout the operation phase, further solidifying the foundation for more electric aircraft in the aviation sector.

During the announcement, Agnès Pronost-Gilles, Executive Vice President and General Manager of the Power Division at Safran Electrical & Power, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration, stating, "We are delighted that H55 has chosen ENGINeUS for their Bristell B23 Energic propulsion system. As the only certified electric engine in aviation, ENGINeUS represents a pivotal advancement in the industry, offering unmatched power-to-weight ratios and reliable performance that fulfills the high market demands."

The Future of Electric Aviation

Notably, the Bristell B23 is already utilized by flight schools in Europe and North America, highlighting a robust integration path for the H55 and Safran developed electric propulsion systems. This transition to certified electric propulsion will allow existing operators to adopt zero-emissions flight training solutions smoothly, capitalizing on existing infrastructure and capabilities without significant disruptions.

Rob Solomon, CEO of H55, highlighted the importance of their collaboration by stating, "By combining the certified energy storage solutions with the premier electric motor technologies, we are presenting OEM manufacturers with a complete, certifiable electric propulsion system. This synergy reduces certification timeframes from years to merely months, acceleratively advancing the availability of electric aircraft."

The industry's reliance on established aircraft models alongside innovative electric solutions provides a practical pathway toward greener aviation. As Martin Bristela, CEO and co-founder of Bristell, noted, this partnership enables a seamless transition to electric flight training by ensuring minimal disruption to the operators’ existing systems.

Looking Ahead

As H55 continues to advocate for a wider range of certified electric solutions, its mission reflects a larger trend within the aviation sector toward sustainability and efficiency. Their commitment to transformation in aviation aligns with broader environmental goals, proving that significant strides toward zero-emission aviation are achievable through collaborative innovation.

In summary, the partnership between H55 and Safran represents a significant milestone in electric aviation, combining expertise, certified technology, and visionary approaches to propel the future of sustainable flight training and aircraft design.