Aviation

Our subsidiary Wankel Aviation GmbH develops and produces hybrid propulsion systems for aircraft and drones, providing superb efficiency and reliability, particularly for multi-rotor applications.

Wankel Aviation GmbH is a joint venture between Wankel SuperTec GmbH and Certification Office Fräbel (www.certification-office.de), combining decades of experience in the development of exceptional rotary engines with in-depth know-how in design and airworthiness certification of aviation products, in particular propulsion units.

The Hybrid Drive System

Wankel Aviation focuses on hybrid propulsion systems for electrically powered drones and light aircraft.

Core components of these hybrid propulsion systems are:

  • The Wankel SuperTec rotary engine
  • Matching generators driven by the rotary engine, generating electricity and serving as starters for the engine
  • Power electronics
  • A buffer battery that provides power for starting the system and for peak demands
  • An electronic control system
  • Electric motors to power the aircraft.

Hybrid propulsion systems allow for smaller internal combustion engines than direct drive systems. The internal combustion engines in hybrid systems can be operated close to their design point, providing unmatched fuel efficiency. In addition, an electric hybrid system supports optimal matching of efficiency between the engine and propeller.

The Engine

Wankel Aviation develops EASA-certified rotary engines based on the existing and proven Wankel SuperTec engine series for multi-fuel operation.

For use with almost all fuels:

  • Diesel
  • Jet-A
  • Kerosene
  • E-fuels such as SAF & green methanol and
  • Hydrogen

We began developing hydrogen-powered engines in 2018, commissioned the first such engine in 2019, and have been further optimizing it ever since.

However, the use of hydrogen in aviation raises challenging questions about the safety of the overall system on board the aircraft. Certification requirements must be considered early in the aircraft development process to ensure the aircraft receives EASA or FAA certification. We can assist you in developing certifiable hydrogen propulsion systems for later integration into the aircraft.

We would be very pleased to assist you in making your aircraft safe with hydrogen.