Destinus receives Spanish support for research and development on supersonic hydrogen aircraft

Swiss startup Destinus has been selected by the Spanish Ministry of Science for a strategic initiative. As part of this initiative, Destinus is receiving support for the development and research of a hydrogen-based supersonic aircraft.

Destinos has been working on a hydrogen-powered passenger plane for years. The plane must be able to fly at supersonic speed. So the journey from Europe to Australia must be completed in just four.

Suitable for conventional airports

The aircraft developed by the startup is powered entirely by hydrogen. It is suitable for both passenger and cargo flights. The aircraft must be suitable for conventional airports, which simplifies the embrace. In addition, Destinus promises to produce low noise, which can reduce the inconvenience experienced by those who live near airports.

Destinus wants to fly her plane over 30 km. It reaches a speed of Mach 5. Due to the high altitude, the aircraft can “float” during the latter part of its flight. As a result, it moves forward without requiring fuel.

A friend of the environment

The starting points, among others, to the environmentally friendly nature of hydrogen as a fuel. For example, hydrogen comes from water, where electrolysis separates hydrogen and oxygen. When hydrogen is burned, the main byproducts are heat and water. Destinus also points out the costs of hydrogen production are falling rapidly, making the fuel increasingly attractive.

The Swiss start-up has been selected by the Spanish Ministry of Science to participate in a strategic initiative. This initiative is part of the Ministry’s Plan for Aviation Technology (PTA).

A grant of 15 million euros

As part of this initiative, Destinus was awarded funding for both development and research. In total, the startup will receive €15 million in support. For example, the Ministry provides funds to develop a test facility for air-powered hydrogen engines in the Madrid region. Destinus participates in the design and development of this website.

The ministry also offers grants for research into liquid hydrogen-based propulsion. Central to this is the testing of innovative engines for the supersonic aircraft of the future.

Engine test

Destinus wants to use that money to test a so-called “H2 aftercombustion jet engine.” It also wants to further investigate hydrogen-based propulsion technology. “We are delighted to have received these grants, especially as they are a clear sign that Destinus is aligned with the strategic directions of Spain and Europe to advance hydrogen flight,” said Davide Bonetti, Vice President of Business and Product Development for Destinus.

“For deep tech companies like us, access to EU recovery funds is essential to conduct cutting-edge research and accelerate the innovation required to compete on a global scale. With these grants, hydrogen-based air transportation solutions will be a step closer to becoming a reality.”

Author: Wouter Hoeffnagel
Photo: Ronnie Michaud via Pixabay