AMSL Aero Pioneers Hydrogen-Powered eVTOL Aircraft in Australia
Key Ideas
  • AMSL Aero completes successful hydrogen fuel cell testing for its eVTOL aircraft, Vertiia, at Bankstown Airport, positioning for emission-free flight testing within a year.
  • Vertiia features a hybrid system combining an electric motor with a battery and a hydrogen fuel cell, supporting zero emissions and long-range capabilities for essential services in Australia.
  • The use of hydrogen has been promising, powering the 100-kilowatt fuel cell test bench and even exporting electricity into the airport grid, cutting costs and carbon footprint.
  • AMSL Aero's innovative use of carbon fiber composite materials in Vertiia's design and manufacturing process, along with unique local collaborations, showcases advancements in eVTOL technology.
AMSL Aero, based in Sydney, Australia, has marked a significant milestone by successfully completing a year of hydrogen fuel cell testing for its eVTOL aircraft, Vertiia, at Bankstown Airport. The aircraft, designed for essential services like medical transfers and freight, features a hybrid system comprising an electric motor, a battery, and a hydrogen fuel cell, enabling zero emissions and long-range travel. The company has already used over 200 kilograms of hydrogen, demonstrating its practical applications in aviation and achieving positive results, including powering the fuel cell test bench and making history with the first free flights in late 2024. AMSL Aero's collaboration with Bankstown Airport has been crucial in their mission to revolutionize longer-distance flights in Australia and beyond. By utilizing hydrogen, the company was able to export electricity into the airport grid, reducing costs and carbon footprint. Furthermore, AMSL Aero's innovative approach to design and manufacturing, incorporating carbon fiber composite materials in unique ways, has set a new standard in eVTOL technology. Local partnerships with companies like Innovation Composites and Quickstep Holdings have enabled the use of unconventional manufacturing methods, propelling Vertiia's development. Chris Smallhorn, the chairman of AMSL Aero, highlighted the successful integration of hydrogen in aviation, emphasizing the company's commitment to sustainable travel solutions. Simon Coburn, the hydrogen lead, elaborated on the practical outcomes of using hydrogen, such as reducing the airport's power bill by exporting electricity. Additionally, AMSL Aero has expanded its testing capabilities to Wellington Aerodrome, showcasing its dedication to advancing hydrogen-powered flight technology. Overall, AMSL Aero's pioneering work with hydrogen in aviation, combined with innovative composite materials, positions Vertiia as a frontrunner in the development of sustainable and efficient eVTOL aircraft for various services.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.