Airbus signs MOU with Australia’s Fortescue Future Industries to study hydrogen for aviation

Airbus has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with renewable energies company Fortescue Future Industries (FFI) to study the use of liquid hydrogen and power-to-liquid fuels for aviation.

It reflects the two partners’ shared ambition to utilise their respective expertise to support the entry-into-service of a hydrogen-powered aircraft by 2035 and achieve net-zero.

Under the collaboration, the partners will look at the challenges of hydrogen regulations, supply, infrastructure and fuelling for aviation, from the production of hydrogen to its delivery to airports and transfer on-board aircraft.

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.

“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 better, greener, cleaner future,” FFI founder and chairman Dr. Andrew Forest AO said.

“We are all citizens of a global world. People want to be able to see their friends and loved ones in other countries. They want to be able to explore new places. They want to see the world. But we also want there to be a world for the future.

“By helping to enable a greener aviation industry, we pave the way for the future generation to be able to live in this global society too, and doing so without sacrificing the planet.”

Airbus will provide characteristics on fleet energy usage, scenarios for hydrogen demand in aviation, refuelling specifications, and aviation regulatory framework.

“Partnerships and cross-sectoral approaches are a necessity to make zero emission aviation a reality,” Glenn Llewellyn, Airbus VP Zero Emission Aircraft said.

“Airbus is preparing itself to put a zero emission aircraft in service by 2035. But this will only be possible if we can ensure enough green hydrogen is produced worldwide and I’m thrilled to see FFI enthusiasm with regards to our ambition.”