London Gatwick Leads the Way in Hydrogen-Powered Aircraft Infrastructure Development
Key Ideas
- Airbus, easyJet, Air Products, and London Gatwick collaborate to establish hydrogen infrastructure at the airport for new aircraft by 2035.
- London Gatwick Hydrogen Hub formed to research and implement hydrogen supply infrastructure, a crucial step towards zero-carbon flights.
- VINCI Airports, along with other airports, join the initiative to develop carbon-free hydrogen infrastructure for aviation.
- Strong commitment from industry leaders like Airbus and London Gatwick to accelerate the adoption of hydrogen in air transport for decarbonization.
Airbus, easyJet, Air Products, and London Gatwick have joined forces to explore the introduction of hydrogen infrastructure at London Gatwick Airport, with the aim of fueling new types of hydrogen-powered aircraft slated for commercial service from 2035. This collaboration has led to the establishment of the London Gatwick Hydrogen Hub, focusing on developing infrastructure for hydrogen supply at the airport to facilitate potential zero-carbon flights. The initiative is part of the broader VINCI Airports' strategy to promote the use of hydrogen in the aviation sector to reduce carbon emissions.
Under Airbus' 'Hydrogen Hubs at Airports' program, the partners are studying various aspects such as liquid hydrogen storage, refueling procedures, and ground handling for hydrogen aircraft. The project also includes short-term plans for utilizing hydrogen at London Gatwick Airport. Additionally, other airports like Lyon-Saint Exupery and Kansai Airports have formed Hydrogen Hubs in collaboration with Airbus to advance carbon-free hydrogen infrastructure.
Stewart Wingate, CEO of London Gatwick, emphasized the role of hydrogen in decarbonizing emissions, particularly for short-haul aircraft. The airport aims to achieve net-zero emissions for controlled emissions (Scope 1 and 2) by 2030. Airbus Vice President Glenn Llewellyn highlighted the importance of hydrogen as a versatile and sustainable fuel for future aviation, with ambitious targets to incorporate hydrogen technology into flights by 2035. The partnership reflects a significant step in promoting hydrogen as a viable solution for the aviation industry's decarbonization efforts.