Hydrogen

 

Aussie Hydrogen-Electric Bonanza Headed to U.S.

California-based Aviate Enterprises named as North American launch customer.

Mark Phelps

·Wednesday, July 23, 2025

 Stralis test-flight Bonanza A36-HE. Credit: Aviate Enterprises

 

Key Takeaways:

Aviate Enterprises, based in California, announced today it will be the U.S. launch customer for the first hydrogen-electric Beech Bonanza to fly in the U.S., to be designated Model A36-HE. The technology is currently in development by Australian start-up Stralis Aircraft, which is testing the system on a pair of A-36s.

The system uses high-temperature PEM fuel cells, with significant weight reduction benefits, improved performance, and reduced operating costs, compared with the Bonanza’s conventional piston engine. The hydrogen-electric system is also quieter and emission-free, with water vapor being the only byproduct.

Stralis said ground testing and propeller spinning have been accomplished and the first flight is planned for late 2025 in Australia. Stralis co-founder and CEO Bob Criner said, “The Bonanza is an iconic and much-loved aircraft, and as 100LL fuel becomes increasingly challenging to access and owners face overhauls, now is an opportune time to begin the transition to a clean fuel and propulsion system.”

Timothy Devine, founder and President of Aviate Enterprises, Inc. said, “What we are doing is like 3 April 1973 – the date of the first cell phone call made in the world. We are going to change the world of Aviation with hydrogen fueled aircraft. Hydrogen is the most  abundant element in the universe, and it is clean and green.”