Brussels Airport's Hydrogen Pilot for Sustainable Ground Handling Operations
Key Ideas
- Brussels Airport, in partnership with VIL and DHL, is conducting a pilot project with a hydrogen refuelling station and a hydrogen-powered Mulag towing tractor.
- The initiative aims to explore hydrogen as a sustainable alternative, with reduced emissions and noise in ground handling operations.
- The project involves a mobile hydrogen refuelling station, comprehensive training for personnel, and testing of a hydrogen prototype for cargo transport by DHL.
- The pilot, part of the Stargate project, will assess hydrogen's viability for ground handling and share insights with other airports for sustainable solutions.
Brussels Airport, in collaboration with partners VIL and DHL, has embarked on a groundbreaking initiative to pilot a hydrogen refuelling station and operate a hydrogen-powered Mulag towing tractor for ground handling operations. This project, a first for the airport, is part of the broader Stargate project dedicated to sustainable airport solutions. The aim is to evaluate hydrogen as an environmentally friendly alternative to traditional fuels and electric equipment, with the potential to significantly reduce emissions and noise levels. In addition, a mobile hydrogen refuelling station has been set up on the tarmac by VIL and WaterstofNet, showcasing the commitment to exploring hydrogen as a viable solution. DHL is actively involved in testing a hydrogen prototype equipped with a fuel cell system for cargo transport, highlighting the adaptability of hydrogen technology in various operational aspects. Safety and efficiency are paramount, with comprehensive training provided to all personnel involved in the pilot project. Scheduled to run until June 27th, this pilot seeks to gather valuable data on hydrogen's practicality in ground handling operations, including safety protocols, operational benefits, and procedural insights. The knowledge gained will be shared with other airports participating in the Stargate project, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange for sustainable aviation practices.