Exeter Airport Leading the Way in Hydrogen Innovation for Sustainable Aviation
Key Ideas
  • Exeter Airport is initiating trials with hydrogen-fueled ground support equipment to cut carbon emissions, aligning with the aviation industry's net zero goals by 2050.
  • The 'Zero Carbon Turn' Project involves a partnership between Exeter Airport, TUI, Cranfield University, and other companies to showcase hydrogen's potential in airport operations.
  • The trials will include hydrogen-powered ground vehicles like GPUs, pushback tugs, and baggage tractors, addressing challenges in supply, storage, and delivery of hydrogen for GSE.
  • The project aims to establish standards, regulations, and skills for hydrogen adoption, with the hope of pioneering sustainable aviation practices and supporting the transition to hydrogen-powered aircraft.
Exeter Airport is embarking on a groundbreaking initiative to introduce hydrogen-fueled ground support equipment (GSE) as part of the 'Zero Carbon Turn' Project. This project, a collaborative effort involving Exeter Airport, TUI, Cranfield University, and other key stakeholders, aims to showcase the potential of hydrogen in reducing carbon emissions from airport ground operations. The project addresses the aviation industry's ambitious goal of achieving net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050 and recognizes the crucial role airports play in this transition. In partnership with Cranfield University and TUI, Exeter Airport conducted a study that revealed significant carbon emissions from diesel fuel consumption by GSE, particularly Ground Power Units (GPUs). To tackle this, upcoming trials in Autumn 2024 will feature hydrogen-powered GSE such as GPUs, pushback tugs, and baggage tractors, equipped with various hydrogen technologies like fuel cells and hybrid systems. Supported by industry players and funding from Connected Places Catapult, the trials aim to overcome challenges related to hydrogen supply, storage, and delivery for GSE. These efforts will contribute to the development of standards, regulations, and necessary skills for the adoption of hydrogen in airport operations, setting the stage for a more sustainable aviation sector. Exeter Airport's managing director and experts from Cranfield University highlight the importance of this project in advancing hydrogen technology at airports and supporting the industry's decarbonization journey. The collaborative nature of the initiative underscores the potential for hydrogen as a zero-emission fuel in air transport. The outcomes of the trials are expected to shape future strategies for wider hydrogen adoption in airports, positioning Exeter Airport as a leader in sustainable aviation practices.
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