ZAL Center of Applied Aeronautical Research

The ZAL Center of Applied Aeronautical Research is one of the world’s leading research and development platforms for civil aviation. Based on the principle of open innovation, around 800 researchers from 35 industry and academic partners collaborate under one roof. Together, they are advancing technologies such as smart cabins, automation, and hydrogen applications. ZAL offers its partners three core services: the rental of modern research infrastructure and space, including hangars, laboratories, and offices; access to interdisciplinary and methodological expertise through research projects and industrial contracts; and a wide range of event formats designed to foster professional exchange and networking. A first for both ZAL and the aviation sector is its collaboration with the maritime industry on hydrogen research, through the Hanseatic Hydrogen Center for Aviation and Maritime (H2AM), launched in 2025. As part of this initiative, ZAL is expanding its existing Fuel Cell Lab to include a hydrogen liquefier and two test chambers for cryogenic applications and altitude simulation.