Stralis Aircraft, based in Brisbane, is collaborating with CQ University to develop hydrogen-powered aircraft with the aim of making flights more affordable and environmentally friendly. The company plans to operate commercial flights between Brisbane and Gladstone using hydrogen by 2027, positioning itself as the first in Australia to do so. The head of partnerships at Stralis, Emma Whittlesea, highlighted the potential cost-effectiveness and environmental benefits of the technology, emphasizing that it is not only cleaner but also quieter. The company is focusing on high temperature proton-exchange membrane fuel cells to ensure sufficient power for passenger and cargo transportation. Testing has already begun on the ground, with plans to have a test aircraft named Bonnie airborne later this year. The technology revolves around hydrogen fuel cells that generate electricity through the chemical reaction of combining hydrogen and oxygen. Stralis has garnered interest from 10 airlines globally for potential aircraft purchases, contingent on the success of the technology. Green hydrogen-powered planes are expected to have minimal greenhouse gas emissions, as they primarily release water vapor. The partnership with CQ University involves the university's assistance in engineering the fuel cell to meet power and temperature requirements. The company intends to source green hydrogen locally, aiming to use it for the Brisbane-Gladstone route. While liquid hydrogen is preferred for space efficiency, its production process may present challenges that are being addressed. The production of green hydrogen involves extracting it from water through electrolysis powered by renewable energy sources like solar, aligning with sustainability goals in aviation.