Within the order, Universal Hydrogen has said Avmax can select between the ATR 72-600 and Dash 8-300 conversion kits, with the supply of hydrogen also set to be included in the deal.

H2 View understands there is scope for Avmax, a large regional lessor, engineering house, maintenance, repair and operations (MRO), and aircraft operator could become MRO partner to Universal Hydrogen.

Canada’s regional aviation market is home to the largest turboprop fleet in the world, with nearly 300 Dash-8s and 50 ATRs servicing more than 120 airports, Universal Hydrogen has said.

Paul Eremenko, co-founder and CEO of Universal Hydrogen, commented, “As air travel volumes return to pre-pandemic levels, expansive nations like Canada are revitalising regional routes to reconnect communities and spur economic activity. We’re excited to collaborate with Avmax to bring hydrogen to Canadian skies.”

In 2021, the California, US-based company announced it has secured $20.5m in funding to accelerate the development of hydrogen propulsion for regional aircraft, with plans of its first commercial flight in 2025.

Read more: Universal Hydrogen raises $20.5m to accelerate hydrogen aviation

Scott Greig, Senior Vice-President and Head of Avmax Aircraft Leasing, said, “Offering our customers true-zero-emissions products and services sets us apart, and we hope to see other airlines in Canada follow suit.

“We see green hydrogen as the only solution to fully decarbonising the industry and we’re thrilled Universal Hydrogen started its work by tackling regional aircraft solutions.”