Beyond Aero is an innovative French aviation startup established in 2020, based in Toulouse, France. Founded by Eloa Guillotin, Valentin Chomel, and Hugo Tarlé, the company is pioneering the development of hydrogen-powered electric business aircraft. As of 2024, Beyond Aero has raised a total of $44 million through various funding rounds, including a significant Series A led by Giant Ventures and Bpifrance, a French sovereign fund. The company aims to revolutionize business aviation by offering sustainable solutions to reduce the carbon footprint of the aviation industry.
| Attribute | Information |
|---|---|
| Founding Date | 2020 |
| Headquarters | Toulouse, France |
| Founders | Eloa Guillotin, Valentin Chomel, Hugo Tarlé |
| Total Funding Raised | $44 million |
| Industry | Aviation, Aerospace |
| Key Investors | Giant Ventures, Bpifrance |
Beyond Aero was founded in 2020 by the trio of Eloa Guillotin, Valentin Chomel, and Hugo Tarlé, driven by the urgent need for sustainable aviation technologies. The founders brought together expertise in entrepreneurship and the aerospace industry, with Chomel having previously worked with aircraft equipment manufacturer Safran. Inspired by the potential of hydrogen propulsion systems, they set out to create a zero-emission private aircraft using hydrogen-electric technology. Beyond Aero's early vision was cemented by its mission to address climate change challenges and to offer a decarbonized alternative in the aviation sector, particularly in business aviation, which is known for its high emissions per passenger.
Beyond Aero's business model focuses on developing hydrogen-powered electric aircraft, primarily targeting the business aviation segment. This approach seeks to reduce emissions significantly, as this sector is more carbon-intensive compared to commercial aviation. Notable achievements include:
Currently, Beyond Aero is at the forefront of the hydrogen-powered aviation movement, having completed significant milestones, including manned test flights and substantial pre-orders. The company is leveraging its innovative hydrogen-electric technology to position itself as a market leader in sustainable aviation solutions. Their strategic focus is on making hydrogen fuel cells viable for business and potentially larger commercial aircraft. Their operations stress collaboration with key investors and stakeholders, aiming for the successful commercialization of their aircraft by 2030.
Beyond Aero represents a pioneering force in the aviation industry's shift towards sustainable solutions. With its innovative hydrogen-electric propulsion technology, the company is well-positioned to meet increasing demands for low-emission aircraft. Going forward, Beyond Aero's continued evolution and technological advancements could play a pivotal role in transforming the aviation landscape, offering a promising alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based aviation.