Embedded Files
Airbus has expressed concerns over what it perceives as a lack of focus from U.S. engine manufacturers, such as GE and Pratt & Whitney, on hydrogen propulsion technologies.
In 2020, Airbus revealed its plans to develop a hydrogen-powered airliner. The European aerospace giant presented several conceptual designs for this aircraft, as part of its ZEROe program. Airbus aims to have its first hydrogen-powered airliner in service by the mid-2030s. From the outset, Airbus sought to collaborate with various engine manufacturers to tackle the complexities of hydrogen propulsion systems.
Hydrogen could potentially power aircraft in two ways: through conventional gas turbines or by generating electricity in fuel cells, which would then drive electric motors. Airbus’ ZEROe concepts have included both of these propulsion methods.
However, according to Aviation Week, not all engine manufacturers have equally embraced hydrogen research. Airbus has recently highlighted that European engine makers are leading the charge in the development of hydrogen propulsion.
Airbus hopes to see American engine manufacturers like General Electric and Pratt & Whitney become more involved in this field. Their expertise could contribute significantly to the project, which is crucial as the 2030s approach, bringing Airbus closer to its target service date.
Airbus Seeks a Broader Range of Hydrogen Engine Partners
Moreover, Airbus doesn’t want to face a situation where it has limited options for engine suppliers when hydrogen propulsion becomes a mainstream choice. There are also geopolitical factors at play, with China’s aviation sector expected to delve into hydrogen propulsion in the coming years.
Interestingly, the first large engine Airbus plans to use in its hydrogen combustion tests is the GE Passport, typically used in business jets. The engine will be mounted on a modified Airbus A380 for testing. Although the Passport is a GE engine, the project is being led by Safran, through its CFM partnership with GE. Airbus’ frustration may not solely lie with U.S. manufacturers but with the lack of hydrogen propulsion funding from organizations like NASA and the FAA.
In comparison, NASA, Boeing, Pratt & Whitney, and GE have been focusing on other future propulsion technologies, including Sustainable Aviation Fuels (SAF) and advanced jet engine core designs.
Beyond engine development, Airbus has been collaborating with airports to explore the infrastructure requirements for hydrogen. This includes airports in the U.S. and Canada, such as those in Atlanta, Houston, Montreal, Toronto, and Vancouver.
The establishment of hydrogen infrastructure at airports, along with the broader logistics, will be a key hurdle in making hydrogen-powered aviation a reality. Additionally, the certification timeline for such a groundbreaking technology is becoming increasingly critical as Airbus approaches its mid-2030s deadline.
Google Sites
Report abuse