The collaborators, under Project Fresson, will not only look at utilising hydrogen-powered flight to the island, but will additionally integrate hydrogen fuel cell technology.
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The Isles of Scilly, situated off the South West coast of Cornwall, is recognised as a Conservation Area, Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, a Heritage Coast and a Special Protection Area.
Using a hydrogen plane for flights to and from the island, as well as fuel cell technology on the island itself, will help maintain the protected landscapes of the archipelago.
The partners originally thought of using a battery powered plane however, due to the weight, charge time and charging infrastructure, this was abandoned to implement hydrogen solutions.
Hydrogen-electric fuel cells offer operators higher passenger loads, greater flexibility, and a potential 50% reduction on powertrain maintenance costs.
Stuart Reid, Chief Executive of the Isles of Scilly Steamship Group, said, “This is an exciting development in the project, and one which we are proud to be a part of.
“The Letter of Intent for hydrogen aircraft really shows our commitment towards a zero-emission aviation industry and to becoming an early adopter of this cutting-edge technology.
“The Isles of Scilly is a special and extraordinary place and we take our environmental policy very seriously, as well as our responsibility towards meeting the Government’s objectives of the decarbonisation of transport.”
William Hynett, Chief Executive of Britten-Norman, said, “Innovation sits at the heart of the Britten-Norman strategy so we are very pleased to be part of Project Fresson and its aim to deliver zero carbon travel.
“We wish to help bring hydrogen-electric commercial aircraft to the market at the earliest opportunity so that we can help drive our customers’ success in the new age of air transport.
“In striving for a zero-carbon future, it is essential that solutions are practical, affordable and sustainable and we believe that we are well placed to help achieve these vital goals in a way that will resonate with our global customers, many of whom seek to help protect the outstandingly beautiful places in which they operate.”
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