Aiming to "Revolutionize air Travel With Sustainable Solutions" - Sirius Aviation's CEO, Alexey Popov

The SiriusJet is a hydrogen-electric powered luxury business jet designed as an eco-friendly alternative to the high CO2 emissions characterised by the business and private jet sector. Its hydrogen-electric ducted fan propulsion system allows for a range of up 1150 miles (1850 km).

The company behind the Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft is Switzerland-based Sirius Aviation AG. 

"Our journey began in 2021, and since then, we have been dedicated to developing the SiriusJet - a game-changing aircraft designed for the future of private air travel," Sirius Aviation's CEO, Alexey Popov, tells Auto Futures.

"Sirius Aviation was founded with the vision of revolutionizing personal air transportation by combining cutting-edge technology with sustainable practices. Recognizing the environmental challenges and inefficiencies in the aviation industry, a team of aerospace engineers and industry veterans came together to create an aircraft that would set new standards in efficiency, safety, and luxury," he adds.

Utilising hydrogen fuel cells, the SiriusJet achieves zero carbon emissions, offering an eco-friendly alternative to traditional jet fuel.

The hydrogen-electric system draws in oxygen through an intake in the nose of the aircraft, which reacts with hydrogen that is stored a fuselage tank. The reaction produces electricity to power the motors and water, which is disposed of through the aircraft exhaust at the tail.

"Hydrogen systems are generally lighter than the batteries required for electric propulsion, enhancing aircraft performance and payload capacity. Hydrogen fuel cells produce zero carbon emissions, emitting only water vapor, thereby minimizing environmental impact. Battery manufacturing is not a sustainabe technology, also they wear out very fast and need x3-5 time replacement per year."

Clients can tailor every aspect of the interior, including unique colors, upholstery, and amenities like champagne fridges, pet spaces, wardrobes, custom bathrooms and flooring materials such as marble, hardwood, or custom carpets.

"The private jet sector has remained relatively stagnant for decades, often associated with high operational costs, significant carbon emissions, and outdated technology. With growing environmental concerns and the need for more efficient transportation solutions, there's a pressing demand to rethink how private aviation operates. Disrupting this sector means introducing sustainable propulsion methods, enhancing safety features, reducing costs, and making private air travel more accessible and environmentally friendly," explains Popov.

In terms of safety, SiriusJet is equipped with a whole aircraft parachute system, effectively reducing the incident risk to virtually zero.

"Safety is paramount in the design of the SiriusJet. The aircraft incorporates multiple layers of safety features."

These features include real-time system monitoring, collision avoidance, and automated emergency protocols.

A Major Milestone

In June, 20242, Sirius unveiled two hydrogen-powered luxury business jets, the Sirius CEO-JET and the Sirius Adventure Jet, developed in collaboration with BMW Group Designworks.

The CEO-JET cruises at speeds up to 323 knots, has a range of up to 1150 miles, and seats three passengers. 

The Adventure Jet has a range of up to 1150 miles, speeds reaching 323 knots, and accommodates five passengers. 

In a press release, Popov stated: "The launch of the Sirius CEO-JET and Adventure Jet represents a major milestone in our mission to revolutionize air travel with sustainable solutions. The CEO-JET offers an eco-friendly option for business travel, while the Adventure Jet opens new horizons for global tourism and exploration." 

"We're bridging the gap for individuals who aspire to own a business jet with pride in a future that values eco-consciousness," he added.

Personal Air Transportatation

Sirius Aviation's roll-out plans include test flights between 2025-2028. The first deliveries to customers are expected by the end of 2028.

The aim is for limited production of 50 jets between 2028-2029 to fulfill pre-orders and partnerships with select clients and operators.

Looking further ahead, Popov sees the widespread adoption of hydrogen and electric propulsion systems reducing the carbon footprint of aviation by the end of the decade.

However, he doesn't expect autonomous flight technology earlier than 2040.

"We believe personal air transportation will become point-to-point, sustainable, efficient, and integrated into daily life," concluses Popov.