Airbus announced that it is delaying plans to begin working on a hydrogen powered commercial aircraft, an effort first predicted for the middle of the next decade. According to Reuters, the delay is said to be caused by slower-than-expected advancement in the necessary technology, which presents a significant challenge to the European aerospace giant to lead the adoption of hydrogen fuel in aviation.
Although Airbus did not give a revised timeline for the hydrogen aircraft project, the Force Ouvriere union reported earlier this week that employees were told that the technology was behind schedule by five to ten years and that the target of 2035 is therefore at risk. The delay was first reported by French news agency AFP.
Hydrogen’s Potential for Aviation
Despite the delay, Airbus remains optimistic about hydrogen’s potential as a transformative energy source for the aviation industry. The company acknowledged the challenge of developing a hydrogen ecosystem, covering production, infrastructure, distribution, and regulatory frameworks. Airbus emphasized the importance of global collaboration and investment to address these challenges.
Airbus had originally proposed to build a hydrogen turboprop, capable of seating 100 people. The firm stated that while the aircraft’s impact on net zero targets is small, it would pave the way for broader hydrogen adoption.
In the meantime, the aviation industry relies on Sustainable Aviation Fuel, SAF, which currently is insufficient in supply to replace fossil based fuel.
Political and Financial Impact of the Programme
Reuters reports that the hydrogen powered aircraft project garnered attention, with analysts suggesting it helped alleviate political concerns in Europe regarding aviation emissions. Besides, it also played a part in securing sectoral funding during the COVID-19 pandemic.
The CEO, Guillaume Faury, has been a strong proponent of hydrogen in aviation and insists that it will eventually be key to the future of this industry, but he also says that Europe must take the lead in developing it.
Also read: OMV and Airbus Partner to Accelerate Aviation Decarbonization with Sustainable Aviation Fuels
Boeing’s Skepticism and Environmental Concerns
The hydrogen initiative contrasts with Boeing’s more conservative position on hydrogen. At last year’s Farnborough Airshow, Boeing publicly raised concerns about the technical readiness and safety implications of hydrogen powered aviation. Some environmental groups are skeptical, citing concerns about hydrogen production’s high energy demands and potential environmental costs.
The hydrogen aircraft delay comes after Airbus Helicopters canceled CityAirbus NextGen due to uncertainties in battery technology development.