Airbus Pushes for Greater Emphasis on Hydrogen Propulsion in Aviation Industry
Key Ideas
  • Airbus is advocating for increased focus on hydrogen propulsion in the aviation industry, expressing dissatisfaction with the level of engagement from US engine makers like GE and Pratt & Whitney.
  • The European manufacturer, through its ZEROe program, aims to have hydrogen-powered aircraft in service by the mid-2030s, employing both gas turbines and fuel cells for propulsion.
  • Airbus is urging aerospace giants such as GE and Pratt & Whitney to allocate more resources to hydrogen research, emphasizing the importance of having multiple engine options when hydrogen propulsion becomes viable.
  • In addition to engine makers, Airbus is collaborating with airports to address the infrastructure challenges associated with hydrogen use, considering certification timelines for the technological transition.
Airbus has been vocal about its desire for a higher level of commitment to hydrogen propulsion within the aviation industry, particularly from US engine manufacturers such as GE and Pratt & Whitney. The company's ZEROe program, initiated in 2020, envisions the introduction of hydrogen-powered airliners by the mid-2030s, utilizing a combination of gas turbines and fuel cells for electric motors. Despite showcasing various concept versions of hydrogen aircraft, Airbus has noted uneven engagement from engine makers, with European companies leading the research efforts. Airbus emphasizes the need for a diverse range of engine options to be available when hydrogen propulsion is ready for implementation, highlighting the strategic importance and potential geopolitical implications of this technology. The company's collaboration extends beyond engine manufacturers to include partnerships with airports to address the infrastructure requirements for hydrogen adoption, a crucial aspect in realizing the viability of this sustainable aviation solution. As Airbus progresses towards its target deadline, considerations around certification timelines and funding support from institutions like NASA and the FAA are emerging as critical factors in advancing hydrogen propulsion in the aviation sector.
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