Beyond Aero's BYA-1 jet

Beyond Aero, a pioneer in hydrogen-electric aviation, has unveiled an advanced version of its BYA-1 light jet, the result of intense engineering optimization and technical validation work. The goal is clear: to obtain certification and get to the marketing of the first light jet with hydrogen-electric hybrid propulsion by 2030.

A more mature project, towards industrial take-off

After its first official presentation at the Le Bourget Air Show in June 2023, Beyond Aero has introduced crucial updates to reduce the risks associated with hydrogen propulsion and accelerate certification and industrialization. The BYA-1 is the first light electric jet designed from the ground up to be powered by hydrogen gas. Among the most relevant innovations:

• Battery-free fuel cell system with built-in redundancy: A modular configuration with two electric motors powered by independent channels, improving safety, scalability, and exceeding industry standards. The power of the fuel cell has been increased to 2.4 MW.
• Optimized tanks from 700 bar above the wing: a design choice that increases safety in the event of an impact, avoids high-pressure pipelines in the pressurized cabin and complies with the highest aerospace standards.
• Advanced thermal management system for electric ducted fans (EDF): Integrated electric fans optimize thrust and efficiency, even in extreme conditions. The specially designed FADEC digital engine control will be certified according to the TC Engine framework, setting a new standard in electric propulsion.

These choices radically reduce maintenance and operating costs. The all-electric propulsion system has 90% fewer moving parts than traditional jets and does not require high-temperature turbines. A modular system allows for quick replacement of motors, reducing operating costs by up to 55%. In addition, hydrogen fuel promises savings of 65% compared to Power-to-Liquid SAF by 2025 and 17% compared to Jet A-1 by 2030, offering a cost-effective alternative for operators and corporate customers looking for low-emission solutions.

Authoritative support and validation of the project

To ensure the technical robustness of the program and strengthen its credibility in the market, Beyond Aero has brought together a committee of experts with leading figures from the international aerospace and aviation industry. This committee confirmed the technical feasibility of the upgraded aircraft, emphasizing its readiness for certification. The committee is composed of: Stéphane Mayer, Bernard Attali, Erik Carlson, Dominique Roland, Augustin de Romanet, Alain Tropis, Jean-Paul Vaunois, Thierry de Poncins.

Designed for Europe and the environment

The BYA-1 is designed to meet the needs of the European market: it has a range of 800 nautical miles (1,500 km) with NBAA reserves, a cruising speed of 310 KTAS and can carry six passengers. Its take-off taxiing of just 620 metres and an approach angle of 5.5° make it suitable for even the most complex airports , such as London City.

On board, the passenger experience is at the center: large elliptical windows (27% larger than average), quiet propulsion and advanced noise insulation reduce interior noise by 15 dB(A), for superior comfort and a serene flight environment.

Certification: the path with EASA

Beyond Aero is actively working with EASA to define a specific regulatory framework for hydrogen aircraft. After submitting the Design Organisation Approval (DOA) application in April 2024, the company is advancing in the pre-application stages for certification, working on a Special Condition that can adapt to the peculiarities of hydrogen propulsion.

Beyond Aero

Founded in December 2020, Beyond Aero has offices in Toulouse, Paris and Los Angeles, a team of more than 70 engineers and is currently expanding the workforce with another 30 specialists. With more than $44 million raised from investors such as Giant Ventures, Bpifrance, Initialized Capital, Female Founders Fund and 7 Percent Ventures, Beyond Aero has already signed letters of intent for 108 aircraft, worth a total of $914 million. The startup also marked a historic milestone: the first fully hydrogen-electric piloted flight in France. He is also an active member of the World Economic Forum's First Movers Coalition and the Alliance for Zero Emission Aviation, confirming his commitment to a truly sustainable aviation future.