Airbus Unveils Next-Generation Hydrogen Aircraft Concept at Sustainability Summit
Key Ideas
- Airbus reaffirms its commitment to decarbonizing aviation through hydrogen-powered flight at the Airbus Summit.
- The new hydrogen-powered aircraft concept features four electric motors powered by a fuel cell system supplied by liquid hydrogen tanks.
- Airbus aims to transform air travel for the better in the long term with the potential of hydrogen-powered aircraft.
- The company is focusing on advancing storage, distribution, and propulsion systems while advocating for the regulatory framework for these aircraft to operate.
During the Airbus Summit, the aircraft manufacturer unveiled a new hydrogen aircraft concept slated for the latter half of the 2030s. Airbus reiterated its dedication to sustainability, with hydrogen as a key component in decarbonizing aviation. The concept aircraft will be equipped with four electric motors, each driven by a fuel cell system that converts hydrogen and oxygen into electricity. This system will be fed by two liquid hydrogen tanks. The company's commitment to hydrogen-powered flight was emphasized by its Head of Future Programmes, Bruno Fichefeux, and CEO Guillaume Faury. Airbus sees fuel cells as a promising pathway for hydrogen aviation after extensive research. Glenn Llewellyn, ZEROe Project Manager at Airbus, highlighted the focus on advancing storage, distribution, and propulsion systems for hydrogen-powered aircraft. The company believes that these aircraft have the potential to transform air travel positively in the long term, supplementing sustainable aviation fuels. Airbus is also working on establishing the necessary regulatory framework to allow these innovative aircraft to operate. Those interested in staying updated on hydrogen news can subscribe to Airbus's LinkedIn weekly newsletter for more insights.