KLM Royal Dutch Airlines – a Corporate Partner of the FTE Digital, Innovation & Startup Hub – has announced a dynamic collaboration with Transavia and Conscious Aerospace, which is aimed at exchanging operational and technical knowledge in the application of fuel cell-based propulsion systems for the Dash 8-300 regional aircraft.
The trilateral collaboration is focused on the foreseen operation of a Conscious Aerospace powertrain equipped Dash 8 aircraft. The cooperation will involve the exchange of insights on seat and cargo design choices for optimal aircraft design optimisation, considering potential markets and route networks. Cost estimates for maintenance and general operation will be collectively refined to further identify real-world applications for the Conscious Aerospace equipped aircraft.
Barry ter Voert, CXO & EVP Business Development, KLM, said: “KLM is committed to leading the way in reducing the environmental impact of aviation, and our involvement in projects like this reflects that commitment. While aircraft powered by new propulsion technologies, such as hydrogen fuel cells, may initially carry fewer passengers and have a limited effect on our overall CO₂ footprint, we believe in starting small and thinking big. By partnering with innovators like Conscious Aerospace and Transavia, we are taking steps toward a commercially viable solution. This collaboration shows our dedication to adopting new technologies and scaling them up. Together, we are helping to shape the future of aviation.”
Marloes van Laake, COO, Transavia, commented: “At Transavia, we believe in a cleaner, quieter and more sustainable aviation industry. We aim to achieve this primarily through collaboration and a strong focus on innovation. That’s why we support ambitious and forward-thinking startups – not just financially, but by sharing knowledge and experience. We are proud to join Conscious Aerospace’s programme, working together to explore and gain insights into new aircraft engine technologies. In doing so, we are helping to shape the aviation of tomorrow.”
Erik Geertsema, CEO, Conscious Aerospace, added: “The development and application of innovative technology to decarbonise aviation needs international and national cooperation. Strong governmental support and collaboration between airframe manufacturers, engine manufacturers, regulatory authorities and customers are key elements to introduce new technology. I am very pleased that KLM and Transavia join our program providing valuable operator insights for the development of our CA propulsion system. Combined with the existing partnerships with EASA, De Havilland of Canada and our supply chain partners we now have all stakeholders on board for the next phase of the development.”
Hear more from KLM Royal Dutch Airlines at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” taking place in Long Beach, California, on 9 to 11 September 2025. Jordie Knoppers, Future Customer Journey Manager, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, is participating in a session focused on ‘The secrets to using AI and other new technologies to reimagine end-to-end customer journeys’.
Join us at FTE Global – the “CES of Aviation” – in LA, 9 to 11 September 2025 – registration live >>You may also be interested in
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