It has been announced that green hydrogen company Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) and Airbus have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) whereby the two companies will focus on the implementation of green hydrogen as a fuel within the aviation industry. The target is to see a green hydrogen-based aircraft enter into service by 2035.
Unlike ordinary hydrogen currently being used for aircraft propulsion units, green hydrogen is made from water using 100% renewable electricity. Part of the work will focus on green hydrogen regulations, infrastructure and global supply chains – from the production of green hydrogen, right through to its delivery to airports and transfer onto aircraft.
According to the MoU, FFI will provide cost outlook and technology drivers on the various elements of the supply chain and will build infrastructure deployment scenarios for the supply of green hydrogen to targeted airports. Airbus will provide characteristics on fleet energy usage, scenarios for hydrogen demand in aviation, refuelling specifications and aviation regulatory framework.
“The time is now for a green revolution in the aviation industry. This exciting collaboration brings together leaders in the aviation industry with leaders in green energy for a pollution-free future,” said FFI founder and Chairman, Dr Andrew Forres. Airbus Vice President of Zero Emissions Aircraft Glenn Llewellyn said, “the future of air travel is green,” adding that “Airbus has identified green hydrogen as the most promising option for decarbonisation to meet our environmental challenges. You heard it here first: We are starting the green aviation revolution.”
