WHY RETROFIT?

The HAPSS project has strategically chosen to focus on retrofitting existing regional turboprop aircraft rather than developing new designs from scratch for several compelling reasons. This approach ensures a faster time to market for zero-emission propulsion systems, allowing airlines to adopt sustainable aviation technologies more efficiently and with less financial and operational risk.

Leveraging Proven Platforms

By retrofitting existing aircraft, HAPSS capitalizes on established, certified airframe designs that have already proven their safety and reliability in commercial aviation. These platforms are familiar to airlines, pilots, and regulators, reducing the complexity and time required for introducing new propulsion technologies. Instead of waiting years for entirely new airframes to be designed, tested, and certified, HAPSS enables operators to convert current fleets into sustainable aircraft with fewer hurdles.

Focusing on Propulsion Innovation

The core challenge for zero-emission aviation lies in developing hydrogen-based propulsion systems, not the aircraft design itself. By concentrating efforts on integrating hydrogen fuel cells, electric propulsion units, and storage systems into already certified airframes, the HAPSS project can make the most significant technological leaps where they matter most—within the propulsion system. This allows for the development of cutting-edge hydrogen-electric systems while utilizing aircraft that are already optimized for performance and passenger comfort.

Cost-Effectiveness and Sustainability

Retrofitting offers significant cost advantages compared to building new aircraft from scratch. Operators can upgrade their current fleets without the need for entirely new aircraft investments, extending the life of their airframes while reducing emissions. This approach also supports a more sustainable industry by repurposing existing aircraft, minimizing the environmental impact associated with manufacturing new airframes. Furthermore, a retrofit option provides flexibility for airlines to transition to zero-emission aviation incrementally, reducing financial risk and allowing for smoother integration into their operations.

Scalable and Flexible Solutions

HAPSS offers tailored solutions for different aircraft sizes, including systems like the HAPSS 4000, which provides 4.0MW of power for 60+ seat turboprops, and the HAPSS 2100, designed for 30+ seat aircraft. This scalable approach makes it possible to apply hydrogen propulsion technology across a wide range of regional aircraft, ensuring broad market applicability and versatility. The project also offers two commercial packages—either a turnkey retrofit solution managed entirely by Conscious Aerospace or a modification kit that airlines can install themselves with oversight—giving customers further flexibility to adopt hydrogen technology in a way that fits their needs.

Accelerating Certification

Certification is a cornerstone of any aerospace advancement, and HAPSS has integrated this process into every stage of development. By focusing on retrofitting, the project addresses regulatory challenges head-on, ensuring that hydrogen propulsion systems meet the highest safety and performance standards. Working closely with aviation authorities like the European Union Aviation Safety Agency (EASA), HAPSS is helping to develop the necessary certification frameworks for hydrogen-based propulsion systems, positioning itself as a leader in the field and paving the way for widespread adoption by the 2030s.