Viraj Aero raises €4.5 million for steam-injection aviation technology

Viraj Aero, a Toulouse-based startup, has raised 4.5 million euros to develop low-carbon aviation propulsion technology. The company aims to fly a prototype aircraft, named Ailefroide, equipped with a steam-injection turbine by 2027.

The technology addresses the weight constraints of traditional steam systems by recovering water directly from engine exhaust gases. This recovered water is converted into steam and reinjected into the turbine. According to the company, this process can reduce fuel consumption by 40% and decrease CO2 emissions, nitrogen oxides (NOx), and condensation trails.

Founded in 2024 by engineers Mathilde Bouilloux and Joseph Risson, the startup is located at the Toulouse-Blagnac airport site. The funding round was led by IRDI Capital Investissement, with participation from Climate Founders, ARTS, OCCSEED, and various business angels. The company is also working toward certification for light aviation systems by 2029.