Airbus Committed to Revolutionizing Air Transport with Hydrogen-Powered Aircraft
Key Ideas
  • Airbus reaffirms commitment to developing a commercially viable hydrogen aircraft using fuel cell technology, despite delays.
  • The company sees hydrogen as a key solution to decarbonize aviation and revolutionize air transport for the better.
  • Hydrogen fuel cells are selected as the propulsion method for the aircraft, with potential to produce zero carbon emissions.
  • Airbus plans to focus on advancing storage, distribution, and propulsion systems for hydrogen-powered aircraft in the coming years.
Airbus has reiterated its dedication to developing a commercially feasible hydrogen aircraft by selecting fuel cell technology as the propulsion method. The decision was announced at the 2025 Airbus Summit, following a delay in the initial timeline due to slower-than-expected progress in hydrogen ecosystem development. Despite the setback, Airbus remains steadfast in its commitment to hydrogen-powered flight, aiming to contribute to the decarbonization of the aviation industry. Acknowledging the sector's significant greenhouse gas emissions, Airbus views hydrogen fuel cells as a promising long-term solution with the potential to revolutionize air transport. The company's ZEROe program, launched in 2020, explores the feasibility of hydrogen propulsion technologies, ultimately opting for hydrogen fuel cells over hydrogen combustion for its future aircraft. The planned aircraft will feature electric propeller propulsion systems powered by hydrogen fuel cells, emitting only water as a byproduct. Glenn Llewellyn, Airbus Head of the ZEROe Project, expressed confidence in the technology's power density and the company's focus on advancing storage, distribution, and propulsion systems necessary for hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft. Airbus envisions a future where hydrogen plays a crucial role in sustainable aviation, advocating for the regulatory framework to support this innovative approach.
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