Exploring Hydrogen

Bio: Bob has 20 years of international aerospace experience, the past 8 of which he has worked on the cutting edge of electric aircraft innovation. He supported Heart Aerospace and Ampaire with electric propulsion system engineering development. He was an early member of the magniX leadership team, helping define company strategy, product roadmap, and certification as Head of Aircraft Integration. Earlier in his career, Bob worked at Google X on the Makani project and held lead positions in Saab, Airbus, UTC, Gulfstream, Northrop Grumman, and Boeing aircraft programs. Bob studied aerospace engineering at UNSW and went through Y Combinator in W23. At Stralis, Bob drives company strategy and manages the finances, leads fundraising and customer sales, and supports the engineering team with his extensive knowledge and expertise.

Welcome to Exploring Hydrogen, the podcast that delves into the emerging hydrogen energy sector's innovations, opportunities, and challenges. In this episode, host Andy Marsland speaks with Bob Criner, co-founder and CEO of Stralis Aircraft. With over 20 years of aerospace experience, including cutting-edge electric propulsion innovation, Bob shares insights into how hydrogen is revolutionising aviation and what it means for the future of travel.

Introduction to Stralis Aircraft 

• Stralis’ mission: Emission-free hydrogen-electric propulsion for aviation. 
• Breakthrough in lightweight, high-temperature PEM fuel cells enabling long-distance hydrogen-powered flights. 
• Progress towards first flight of Stralis’ demonstrator aircraft by late 2025 

The Hydrogen Advantage in Aviation 

• Comparison of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), hydrogen, and batteries for decarbonisation. 
• Why hydrogen electric is the cost-efficient solution for flights up to 3,000 km. 
• The potential for reducing ticket prices and enhancing regional connectivity. 

Technology and Innovation 

• Stralis’ propulsion system: Liquid hydrogen tanks, innovative fuel cells, and electric motors. 
• Efficiency breakthrough 
• Developing robust and scalable systems for future commercial applications. 

Challenges in Hydrogen Adopt

 the Hydrogen Flight Alliance, including key partnerships with Brisbane Airport, QUT, and Fortescue. 

Future Vision for Aviation 

• Scaling hydrogen technology from small regional aircraft to larger fleets. 
• Long-term goal: 50-seat aircraft with 50% lower operating costs, reshaping point-to-point travel. 
• Potential to reignite regional air travel with cheaper, cleaner, and more convenient flights. 

Hydrogen Beyond Passenger Planes 

• Expanding hydrogen technology into cargo drones for extended range and payload capabilities. 
• Accelerating commercial adoption through real-world applications and partnerships. 

Insights for Startups in the Hydrogen Sector 

• Lessons learned from Y Combinator and the importance of founder communities. 
• Strategies for navigating the funding landscape and fostering innovation in Australia. 

Key Quotes:

"Hydrogen electric propulsion could redefine how we think about regional air travel—cleaner, cheaper, and more connected." – Bob Criner
"With innovations in fuel cell efficiency and lightweight design, we’re unlocking the future of long-range, emission-free aviation." – Bob Criner

Resources & Links: 

• Learn more about Stralis Aircraft: Stralis Website 
• Connect with the Hydrogen Flight Alliance: HFA.Aero 
• Stay updated with Stralis on LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/stralis-aircraft/ 

Join the Journey
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