Climate Impulse Project Marks Milestones in Zero-Emission Global Flight with Green Hydrogen
Key Ideas
  • Climate Impulse project, led by Bertrand Piccard, achieves major advancements in constructing a zero-emission global flight plane using green hydrogen.
  • Key 2024 goals include cockpit development, wing construction with advanced composites, and unveiling a 3D model, with 2025-26 focusing on hydrogen fuel cell testing and test flights.
  • Syensqo and other partners contribute lightweight materials and technology for extended range, aiming to demonstrate hydrogen's viability in aviation for global adoption of sustainable practices.
  • The project, a test bench for Airbus after the postponement of its own gaseous hydrogen plane research, attracts interest from high-profile figures like Tom Cruise, signaling growing support for eco-friendly aviation.
The Climate Impulse project, led by Bertrand Piccard and supported by key partners like Syensqo, celebrated its first anniversary in Les Sables d'Olonne, France, showcasing significant progress in developing a zero-emission global flight powered by green hydrogen. The project, aiming for a record-breaking nine-day journey, has achieved key milestones such as completing the cockpit, advanced-composites wing construction, and utilizing lightweight epoxy and carbon fiber composite materials. These advancements are expected to potentially extend the aircraft's range by 9,000 km. Future goals for 2024 include further cockpit development, interior fittings, wing spar manufacturing, and the presentation of a 3D aircraft model. The following years will focus on hydrogen fuel cell testing, aircraft assembly at Châteauroux Airport, and conducting the first test flights in 2026. With fuel cells already displaying impressive 55% efficiency, the project seeks to demonstrate the feasibility and benefits of hydrogen in aviation, fostering the adoption of sustainable technologies globally. Syensqo, along with partners like Airbus, Ariane, and Safran, contributes advanced technology to the project, positioning it as a pivotal initiative in decarbonisation research. Notably, the Climate Impulse project has emerged as a testing ground for Airbus after the delay of its hydrogen-powered plane research. High-profile individuals like Tom Cruise expressing willingness to participate in the project's flights highlights the increasing support and interest in eco-friendly aviation initiatives. The innovative aircraft design includes thermally-insulated reservoirs for liquid hydrogen, advanced-composite wings with a total wingspan of 34 m, and a spacious cockpit accommodating up to 5 individuals for the world tour led by Piccard and co-pilot Dinelli.
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