Exeter Airport's Groundbreaking Hydrogen Fuel Trials for Zero Carbon Turn Project
Key Ideas
  • Exeter Airport, in collaboration with Cranfield University and TUI, will conduct hydrogen fuel trials to reduce carbon emissions from ground operations.
  • Studies revealed high diesel consumption and CO2 emissions, with Ground Power Units being a major contributor to emissions.
  • The upcoming trials will feature hydrogen-powered ground support equipment and aim to address challenges related to hydrogen supply, storage, and delivery.
  • The project represents a significant step towards decarbonizing airport operations and supporting the transition to hydrogen-powered aircraft, with government support and industry collaboration.
Exeter Airport, in partnership with Cranfield University and travel company TUI, is set to embark on groundbreaking trials introducing hydrogen-fueled ground support equipment (GSE) to reduce carbon emissions from airport ground operations. This initiative is part of the 'Zero Carbon Turn' Project, aiming to achieve net zero carbon dioxide emissions by 2050 in the aviation sector. Studies conducted by Cranfield University highlighted the significant diesel consumption and CO2 emissions from airport operations, with Ground Power Units identified as a major emission source. The upcoming trials planned for Autumn 2024 will feature hydrogen-powered GSE, including a variety of retrofitted vehicles utilizing different hydrogen technologies. Supported by various companies and funding sources, the trials will address challenges related to hydrogen supply, storage, and delivery, while aiming to establish airport-specific standards and regulations. Exeter Airport's managing director expressed optimism about the project's impact on decarbonization and the transition to hydrogen-powered aircraft. Similarly, Cranfield University's Associate Professor emphasized the importance of collaboration in achieving decarbonization goals and highlighted the potential of hydrogen as a zero-emission fuel for air transport. The trials at Exeter Airport are expected to provide valuable insights for the broader adoption of hydrogen in airport operations, ultimately contributing to significant emissions reductions and positioning the airport as a leader in sustainable aviation practices.
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