ZeroAvia Commences Liquid Hydrogen R&D Activity at Stockton Metropolitan Airport to Advance Clean Energy Innovation in Aviation
Stockton Metropolitan Airport is pleased to announce that ZeroAvia, a leading innovator in zero-emission aviation technology, will establish a research and development facility focused on liquid hydrogen refueling at the airport. On February 11, 2025, the Board of Supervisors approved the lease for ZeroAvia to move into Stockton Metropolitan Airport, paving the way for the company to begin operations at the facility.
"The arrival of ZeroAvia at Stockton Metropolitan Airport is a positive step forward for our airport and the entire Stockton region," said Richard Sokol, Airport Director. "As we look toward the future of aviation, we recognize the importance of supporting and collaborating with companies that are making tangible strides in green energy. ZeroAvia's work will contribute to a more sustainable transportation industry, and we look forward to supporting their work here at the Stockton Metropolitan Airport."
"Stockton Metropolitan Airport provides us with an excellent environment to continue our work on liquid hydrogen refueling systems for hydrogen aircraft in California,” said Val Miftakhov, ZeroAvia CEO. “Along with high temperature fuel cells and advanced electric motors, liquid hydrogen systems are a critical building block for scaling hydrogen-electric engines into ever larger aircraft. We are leading the innovation in all three areas to deliver a clean future of flight, and our work in Stockton will be a key part of realizing that mission."
At SCK, ZeroAvia will progress its California Energy Commission (CEC) supported project to design, build and test first-of-a-kind rapid liquid hydrogen (LH2) refueling vehicles for aviation and other heavy-duty applications. The CEC-funded project advances the commercial viability of liquid hydrogen fueled aircraft by supporting advancements in energy performance, cost efficiency, and refueling speed.
ZeroAvia is a leader in developing hydrogen-electric and electric aviation solutions to make air travel more sustainable. The company has flown multiple testbed aircraft retrofit with hydrogen and electric powertrains, including in California, and has recently reached a major FAA milestone relating to its 600kW electric propulsion system.
This move marks a significant step in advancing sustainable aviation and underscores the airport's commitment to fostering innovation in green energy solutions. Stockton Metropolitan Airport remains dedicated to working with companies that are developing innovative technologies to advance the aviation industry.
