French aerospace startup Beyond Aero has declared that its hydrogen-powered business jet initiative, the BYA-I One, has triumphantly completed the Preliminary Design Review (PDR). This achievement marks a pivotal stride forward in the airworthiness certification journey for this innovative, zero-emission aircraft. The jet employs electric propulsion technology powered by hydrogen fuel cells, substituting conventional gas turbine engines with electric fans. This substitution not only aligns with eco-friendly goals but also substantially diminishes flight noise.

As per the project's roadmap, the aircraft is slated for commercial deployment around 2030. It is envisioned as a short-range business jet, boasting a range of up to 800 nautical miles, a cruising speed of approximately 300 knots, a maximum takeoff weight of around 9,600 kilograms, and the capacity to accommodate 8 passengers alongside 2 crew members. With the successful completion of the Preliminary Design Review, the project is now poised to enter the detailed design and subsystem integration verification phase.