ZeroAvia has been covering good ground in the mission to launch innovative sustainable aircraft over the last few years. The company was testing its hydrogen propulsion system with a Piper Malibu Mirage on April 29th. However, the plane sustained notable damage when landing in the English county of Bedfordshire.
Trouble after landing
According to Aviation International News, the plane landed in a field near the United Kingdom’s Cranfield Airport at approximately 15:30. In a photo of the incident, the left wing can be seen detached from the aircraft. The horizontal stabilizer and cowling also appear to be damaged.
Here’s another photo released to media by local fire fighters. https://t.co/aOEtrZOM1z pic.twitter.com/AIIbYNVlAp
— Mark Harris (@meharris) April 30, 2021
ZeroAvia has shared some details about what happened. However, investigations are still ongoing. Nonetheless, there were thankfully no injuries to the two crew members on board the plane.
“On April 29th, our R&D aircraft made a safe, off-airport landing in a field just outside the Bedfordshire airport,” ZeroAvia shared on its Twitter.
“Aircraft has sustained some damage, but everybody involved is safe, and without injury. As we analyze the flight data, we will provide updates as we learn more.”
Grand prospects
ZeroAvia has strong support within the aviation industry. Notably, British Airways is a significant backer. The airline is part of a group that has made a recent $24.3 million investment into the company.
The startup was only formed four years ago, but it has its sights on 50-seater aircraft by 2026. It is also looking at a 500-mile range, 10-20 seat commercial plane. Altogether, the British/American firm has faith in the launch of a 100-seat…