11 Apr Beyond Aero BYA-1: Hydrogen-Electric Jet Redefines Clean Air Travel

Beyond Aero’s BYA-1 Hydrogen-Electric Jet Is Disrupting Business Aviation

Beyond Aero is propelling the aviation industry into a new era with its groundbreaking BYA-1 hydrogen-electric light jet, designed to eliminate emissions while cutting operational costs. Unlike conventional jets that rely on turbines or heavy battery systems, the BYA-1 runs exclusively on a hydrogen fuel cell system, delivering a revolutionary clean-energy solution for business and leisure air travel.

With a sharp focus on zero-emission flight, BYA-1 is engineered for maximum efficiency, safety, and sustainability. This forward-thinking aircraft offers a range of 800 nautical miles (approximately 1,500 km) and seats up to six passengers, making it an ideal choice for regional and international business routes.

Clean Energy Meets Engineering Excellence

At the core of the BYA-1 is a 2.4-megawatt hydrogen fuel cell stack, delivering powerful yet quiet electric propulsion. Two electric engines run on independent powerplant channels, ensuring full redundancy in case of failure—safety that rivals or exceeds traditional jet designs.

Fuel is stored in 700-bar high-pressure hydrogen tanks positioned above the wing box, a strategic layout that keeps volatile lines out of the cabin for added safety. This layout not only improves the aircraft’s safety profile but also enhances structural efficiency.

A Game-Changer for Cost and Maintenance

The BYA-1 offers up to 55% lower operational costs than comparable turbine jets, largely due to a 90% reduction in moving parts. Its modular engine swap system allows for quick replacements, significantly reducing downtime and long-term maintenance expenses.

As the global price of hydrogen fuel continues to fall, flying the BYA-1 could become 65% more cost-effective than using conventional Jet A-1 fuel—redefining cost-efficiency in business aviation.

Superior Passenger Experience

Beyond Aero didn’t overlook the passenger experience. The cabin is designed for luxury and tranquility, featuring large elliptical windows that are 27% bigger than those in traditional business jets, allowing more natural light to flood the interior.

Paired with advanced acoustic insulation and a whisper-quiet electric drivetrain, the BYA-1 cabin is 15 decibels quieter than conventional jets. Passengers will also enjoy high-speed Starlink Wi-Fi, ensuring seamless connectivity at 30,000 feet.

Short Runways, Long Reach

Unlike urban air taxis, the BYA-1 operates like a traditional jet, requiring just 620 meters of runway—ideal for short-field airports like London City Airport. With a cruise speed of 310 knots (around 575 km/h), it’s built for efficiency on routes like London to Nice, offering both speed and sustainability.

A Hydrogen-Powered Future in Motion

Since debuting the BYA-1 concept at the Paris Air Show in Le Bourget (2023), Beyond Aero has gained rapid momentum. With over $914 million in Letters of Intent for 108 aircraft, the company is proving market confidence in its clean aviation vision.

Beyond Aero has successfully completed its first manned hydrogen-electric test flight in France and is actively working with EASA (European Union Aviation Safety Agency) to achieve full certification.

With headquarters in Toulouse, Paris, and Los Angeles, and a global vision rooted in clean aviation, Beyond Aero is targeting first certified deliveries by 2030—ushering in a bold new era of sustainable, zero-emission business jets.

Written and curated by Ozzie Small