ASL to convert fuel source on ATR 72Fs with Universal Hydrogen

Dublin-based ASL Aviation Holdings and Los Angeles-based Universal Hydrogen have partnered to explore the use of modular hydrogen capsules to fuel ASL’s ATR 72 freighters, a change that could have implications for both companies as well as the air cargo industry and the environment. Following a regulatory and aircraft assessment, ASL has signed a letter of intent to purchase and install up to ten Jet A-to-hydrogen conversion kits on up to ten of its ATR 72Fs operated in ACMI service for its major customers throughout Europe. [caption id="attachment_416757" align="alignright" width="560"] ASL Airlines has ATR 72s registered in Ireland and the U.K. (Photo/Universal Hydrogen)[/caption] As part of the LOI, ASL has agreed to provide one of its owned ATR 72Fs to use as the conformity aircraft for conversion and certification for the platform. Universal Hydrogen is already developing its first conversion STC for the Dash 8 Q-300 and is targeting service entry in 2025. Service entry for the ATR 72 hydrogen conversion will follow shortly thereafter, Universal Hydrogen told Cargo Facts. While future aircraft programs may include lower-emissions technology, airlines cannot wait — and for many missions, air cargo cannot justify the expense of new aircraft. “The big challenge from a freight organization, is the price has always traditionally worked on used old airplanes, because of the fact that the market is so price-sensitive,” said Dave Andrew, CEO of ASL Aviation Holdings. “What we liked about the Universal offering was the fact that it makes use of an existing airframe. This at least allows us to keep some of that fleet plus supply the new technology and a bridge to get us to the newer, clean zero-emissions fleet,” Andrew added. In addition to the conversions, the two companies plan to sign a long-term fuel services contract whereby Universal Hydrogen would provide green hydrogen fuel to power ASL’s ATR 72F fleet. Universal’s model envisions the use of modular hydrogen fuel canisters which utilize hydrogen captured from clean or renewable energy sources and then transported to airlines via traditional logistics models. Empty containers are then returned to Universal Hydrogen to be refilled and used again. “I think this is a pretty important milestone for us because we do believe that getting zero-carbon hydrogen-powered aircraft into the cargo market is a really exceptional opportunity,” Rod Williams, chief commercial officer of Universal Hydrogen, told Cargo Facts . “The cargo market is growing. Sustainability is just as important to cargo operators as it is to airline operators. So, we're really pleased that we've been able to find a way to basically break into that particular market segment.” For ASL, the dream perhaps began in 2020 with the formation of CargoVision, to raise awareness of ASL and forum members’ positions on new technologies and sustainability for air cargo operations. Forum members include aviation technology companies Eviation, Flylogix, Magni, Pipistrel, Reliable Robotics, Universal Hydrogen and Verdego Aero. “If it can get to be as functional as what we think it's going to be, and it will be at zero emissions, that's a significant achievement, and I think the biggest benefactor will be the environment,” Andrew said. “We are sort of jumping into the pool now and we need to swim across to the other side and make it all happen. We're optimistic that it's going to happen and enthusiastic about getting there,” he added. Cargo Facts Symposium, taking place LIVE Oct. 25-27 at the Wynn Las Vegas, is the essential event for stakeholders in the air cargo industry. Learn more and register at www.cargofactssymposium.com .

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