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The Bases Conversion and Development Authority signed a partnership with Australian aircraft manufacturer AMSL Aero to develop zero-emission aircraft and hydrogen production industries
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The collaboration aims to establish clean energy infrastructure and introduce cheap, hydrogen-powered Vertical Take-Off and Landing aircraft to connect the Philippine archipelago
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AMSL Aero produces a long-range hydrogen-electric VTOL aircraft, the Vertiia, a next-generation aircraft that takes off like a helicopter and flies like a fixed-wing airplane
The Bases Conversion and Development Authority (BCDA) signed a partnership with Australian aircraft manufacturer AMSL Aero to develop zero-emission aircraft and hydrogen production industries in the Philippines.
The collaboration aims to establish a clean energy infrastructure and introduce low-cost, hydrogen-powered Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft to connect the country’s archipelagic regions, BCDA said in a statement.
The agreement involves knowledge sharing and feasibility studies that could lead to the development of clean energy production sites within BCDA properties.
AMSL Aero’s Vertiia, a next-generation hydrogen-electric VTOL aircraft, will play a central role in these efforts, with potential applications in passenger transport, cargo, and air rescue operations.
The Australian-based sustainable development aerospace technology company produces the Vertiia, which takes off like a helicopter and flies like a fixed-wing airplane at a low cost per hour. It has a range of up to 1,000 kilometers and cruising speeds of 300 km.
AMSL Aero CEO Max York said the partnership could drive future advancements in both aerospace and clean energy production, benefiting the Philippines economically and technologically.
This marks BCDA’s second international partnership, following an agreement with New Zealand’s Life Flight in September 2024.
“[With] the recently signed partnership with Life Flight New Zealand clearly demonstrates the global demand and opportunity for hydrogen-powered VTOL technology. These agreements will enable AMSL Aero to further develop our innovative Vertiia technology to support multi-national requirements for passenger, cargo, air rescue, aeromedical and military air operations,” York said.
BCDA president and CEO Engr. Joshua M. Bingcang added that the agreement aligns with the vision of transforming New Clark City into a smart and sustainable hub such as modern energy and transport infrastructure.
AMSL Aero has secured AUD$55 million ($37 million) in funding to develop the Vertiia, which is expected to reshape air travel in the coming years.
The Vertiia is currently progressing through the civil aviation certification process and is expected to enter production within the next few years.
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