Kate's Column - Hydrogen

  • 30th Apr 2024

In my previous columns we have delved into different power types that could offer more sustainable options to the aviation industry such as Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) and electric aircraft. Therefore, it only felt right that this month we explore the potential of hydrogen for sustainable aviation.

Hydrogen is expected to play a key role in the future of fuelling aircraft and holds a promising solution for decarbonising the aviation sector. The Climate Change Committee and the UK Governments Department for Transport Jet Zero Strategy acknowledge the potential role of hydrogen aviation in achieving net zero.

The UK is favourably situated to become a world leader in the hydrogen aviation sector. The Hydrogen in Aviation Alliance (HIA), established in September 2023, are working to accelerate the delivery of zero carbon aviation, using hydrogen, in the UK. The HIA comprises of industry experts in energy production, technology development and airline and airport operations such as Rolls-Royce, Airbus and ZeroAvia to name a few.

In addition to the exciting work of the HIA, Cranfield University, who are a long-term supporter of RIAT, are sending a ‘flying laboratory’ to this year’s show. In a typical year, this will see over 1,200 students board the SAAB 340B to help them with their degrees.

Recently the University announced that it is set to receive almost £70m of funding to help with their work surrounding hydrogen. The Research England Research Partnership Investment Fund is providing a £23m injection, which is a record amount for Cranfield University, and a further £46m has been pledged by industry partners and academic institutions. This funding enables the University to spearhead the research and development of the first hydrogen technology hub and will enable them to expand their activity in the following areas:

  • Development of Hydrogen Integration Research Centre: A pre-existing structure which will expand to have new labs and equipment.
  • Test Bed: A facility that supports hydrogen and liquid hydrogen activity, fuel systems, storage and propulsion system integration.
  • Cranfield Airport expansion: Increasing its ability to operate and test safely.

ZeroAvia, founded in 2018 and a member of the HIA, have created a hydrogen-electric powered aircraft. Following a successful first test flight in July 2023, the company completed their latest test flight earlier this month at Cotswold Airport – a stone’s throw from us here at Douglas Bader House. The test flight saw their 228 Dornier fly for 35 minutes above the Gloucestershire countryside, which was a record for the aircraft.

These developments, alongside the wider industry progression with SAF and electric aircraft, make for an exciting time within the aviation industry.

Aside from sustainable aviation and speaking about sustainability more broadly, this month included Earth Day on the 22nd April. Set up in 1970, it is a globally recognised day that highlights the importance of environmental protection. The theme for this year is ‘Planet vs. Plastics’ which aims to raise awareness for plastic pollution. Here at RAFCTE, we are working extremely hard to achieve our RIAT24 Sustainability Objective of eliminating single-use plastic on the showground by actively working with our suppliers to provide better, more sustainable alternatives.

Thank you for taking the time to read this month's column, I will be back in May to discuss more exciting sustainability news.