ZeroAvia Founder Steps Down Amid Hydrogen Certification Push

The aviation industry is reacting to news that ZeroAvia founder and CEO Val Miftakhov has resigned from his leadership role. On May 29, 2026, ZeroAvia announced that Miftakhov stepped down as CEO to pursue new opportunities, though he will remain on the board of directors to support long-term strategy.

Christine Ourmières-Widener, the board's executive chair, has assumed day-to-day operations while the company searches for a permanent successor. This leadership change comes at a critical juncture as the company maintains a target of 2027 for certification of its ZA600 fuel-cell system. The transition follows a turbulent year for the hydrogen aviation startup, with analysts questioning whether operational restructuring may impact commercialization momentum.

Certification and Partnerships

ZeroAvia continues to focus on integrating its hydrogen-electric engine program into regional platforms. The company previously utilized the De Havilland Canada DHC-6 Twin Otter and Dornier 228 as test platforms to validate its technology. Current efforts include a partnership with RVL Aviation to operate Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft retrofitted with the ZA600 powertrain, pending final certification and training requirements.

Industry observers suggest the resignation serves as a governance test for the sector. The primary focus for investors and regional airline partners remains whether the leadership transition will result in a strategic reset or if the 2027 certification timeline remains intact.