Leading Hydrogen Aviation Expert Dr. Sayem Zafar to Teach First-Ever H2 Aircraft Certification Course

World-renowned hydrogen fuel cell specialist joins HYSKY Society's groundbreaking certification program for zero-emission aviation

Houston, TX July 15, 2025 — HYSKY Society announced today that Dr. Sayem Zafar, Partner-Aerospace Division at ABT Systems and a pioneering expert in hydrogen aviation technologies, will serve as a key instructor for the world's first H2 Aircraft Certification Short Course. The landmark educational program runs from August 26 through September 11, 2025, addressing the critical knowledge gap in hydrogen aircraft certification processes.

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Dr. Zafar brings over 14 years of specialized experience in designing and developing hydrogen fuel cell powertrains for fixed-wing UAVs, eVTOL aircraft, and multi-rotor drones. His participation in the course represents a significant milestone for the hydrogen aviation industry, as regulatory frameworks continue to evolve for zero-emission flight technologies.

"Dr. Zafar's extensive hands-on experience with hydrogen propulsion systems, combined with his deep understanding of aerospace certification challenges, makes him an invaluable addition to our instructor team," said Danielle McLean, CEO of HYSKY Society. "His real-world expertise in converting traditional aircraft to hydrogen fuel cell systems directly addresses the practical certification challenges our course participants face."

Advancing Hydrogen Aviation Certification

The H2 Aircraft Certification Short Course, developed in collaboration with the FAA, EASA, and Transport Canada, represents the aviation industry's first comprehensive educational program focused specifically on hydrogen aircraft certification. Dr. Zafar will lead critical sessions on "Certification of LH2 Storage and Fuel Systems" and "Ground Handling and Operational Certification" — two of the most technically complex aspects of hydrogen aircraft approval.

Dr. Zafar's research portfolio includes over 20 peer-reviewed publications on hydrogen applications in aerospace, with particular focus on hybrid solar-hydrogen UAV platforms and the optimization of fuel cell integration in unmanned systems. His work directly informs the certification strategies needed for the next generation of hydrogen-powered aircraft.

Meeting Industry Demand for Hydrogen Aviation Expertise

The timing of Dr. Zafar's involvement coincides with accelerating industry momentum toward hydrogen aviation. Major aerospace manufacturers including Airbus, ZeroAvia, and Universal Hydrogen are advancing hydrogen aircraft programs, creating urgent demand for certification expertise.

"The hydrogen aviation sector is at a critical juncture where technical innovation must align with regulatory requirements," noted Dr. Zafar. "This course provides essential knowledge for professionals navigating the complex certification landscape of cryogenic fuel systems, fuel cell propulsion, and operational safety protocols."

The course curriculum addresses key certification challenges including crash safety requirements for liquid hydrogen storage, system integration protocols, cryogenic hazard mitigation, and emergency response procedures — areas where Dr. Zafar's expertise in UAV hydrogen systems provides unique insights applicable to larger aircraft platforms.

Course Details and Industry Impact

The 3-week program features six live sessions, each running two hours on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:00-2:00 PM Central Time. All participants receive access to recorded sessions and course materials, ensuring global accessibility for the hydrogen aviation community.

Course topics span the complete certification lifecycle, from regulatory foundations through continuing airworthiness requirements. Dr. Zafar's sessions focus on the technical certification aspects that often present the greatest barriers to hydrogen aircraft approval.

With hydrogen aviation projected to reach commercial viability within the next decade, the specialized knowledge offered through this course positions participants at the forefront of sustainable aviation transformation.

About Dr. Sayem Zafar

Dr. Sayem Zafar serves as Partner-Aerospace Division at ABT Systems (https://abtsystems.ae/), where he leads advanced hydrogen propulsion development programs. Holding a Ph.D. in hydrogen technologies, he has consistently advanced the integration of hydrogen fuel cells into aerospace applications over his 14-year career.

His research encompasses hybrid solar-hydrogen UAV platforms, internal combustion engine conversions to hydrogen fuel cell systems, and propulsion system optimization for various aircraft platforms. As a certified instructor and advisor on hydrogen technologies, Dr. Zafar regularly delivers specialized training on hydrogen fuel cell applications in mobility and aerospace sectors.

About HYSKY Society

HYSKY Society is a nonprofit organization dedicated to decarbonizing aviation through hydrogen technologies. Through programs including FLYING HY, H2Hub Summit, HYSKY Monthly, HYSKY Pod, and HYSKY Connect, the organization builds bridges across hydrogen and aerospace sectors to accelerate zero-emission flight development.

The H2 Aircraft Certification Short Course represents HYSKY Society's commitment to addressing critical knowledge gaps in hydrogen aviation, providing essential education as the industry transitions toward sustainable propulsion technologies.

Course Registration: https://connect.hysky.org/plans/1541703HYSKY

Connect VIP Membership: https://connect.hysky.org/share/B1L4_Itb8JdJk5VT

Media Contact:

HYSKY Society d@hy-sky.net

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