Airbus has reaffirmed its intention to develop a hydrogen-powered aircraft, selecting fuel cell technology as the preferred propulsion method. The company made the announcement during the 2025 Airbus Summit, highlighting its ongoing efforts to decarbonize aviation. This decision follows an earlier adjustment to its hydrogen aircraft timeline, as challenges in hydrogen infrastructure and technological advancements have slowed progress. Airbus continues to explore efficient and sustainable propulsion technologies, positioning hydrogen as a key component of its long-term strategy.
Airbus has previously introduced various hydrogen propulsion concepts under its ZEROe program, launched in 2020. While initially considering both hydrogen combustion and fuel cells, the latest tests and feasibility studies have led the company to focus on fuel cell technology. This approach differs from earlier expectations that hydrogen combustion might play a more dominant role. The company has also been working on cryogenic storage technology to enhance the feasibility of hydrogen-powered flight. These efforts reflect evolving industry perspectives on the role of hydrogen in aviation.
Why did Airbus choose fuel cell technology?
The company’s decision follows extensive testing of fuel cell systems and powertrains, which demonstrated their potential for commercial aviation. Hydrogen fuel cells generate electrical energy through a reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, producing only water as a byproduct. Airbus aims to equip the new aircraft with four 2-megawatt electric propulsion engines, each powered by a separate fuel cell system, with energy supplied by liquid hydrogen tanks. This method offers a promising path to reducing greenhouse gas emissions in aviation.
What are the industry-wide implications of Airbus’ decision?
Airbus’ commitment to hydrogen fuel cell propulsion signals a broader trend in aviation toward alternative energy sources. The industry currently accounts for 2-3% of global greenhouse gas emissions, a figure expected to rise without intervention. While sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) and battery-electric aircraft are being developed to reduce emissions, hydrogen presents an opportunity for long-term carbon-free aviation. However, challenges remain in infrastructure, regulatory frameworks, and hydrogen production scalability.
Bruno Fichefeux, Airbus Head of Future Programmes, emphasized the role of hydrogen in the company’s sustainability strategy:
“Hydrogen is at the heart of our commitment to decarbonise aviation. While we’ve adjusted our roadmap, our dedication to hydrogen-powered flight is unwavering. Just as we saw in the automotive sector, fully electric aircraft powered by hydrogen fuel cells have the potential in the longer term to revolutionise air transport for the better, complementing the sustainable aviation fuel pathway.”
The company has acknowledged that development challenges persist but remains confident in the feasibility of fuel cell technology. Glenn Llewellyn, Airbus Head of the ZEROe Project, outlined the next steps for the initiative:
“Over the last five years, we have explored multiple hydrogen-propulsion concepts, before down-selecting this fully electric concept. We are confident it could provide the necessary power density for a hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft and could evolve as we mature the technology. In the coming years, we will concentrate on advancing the storage, distribution and propulsion systems, while also advocating for the regulatory framework needed to ensure these aircraft can take flight.”
The aviation industry faces ongoing challenges in reducing its environmental impact. Airbus’ focus on hydrogen fuel cell technology reflects a strategic decision to prioritize long-term sustainability. While sustainable aviation fuels provide an immediate solution, hydrogen has the potential for long-term emissions reductions. However, the transition to hydrogen-powered flight requires significant advancements in infrastructure, regulatory approval, and cost reduction. Industry stakeholders will closely watch Airbus’ progress as it refines the technology and works toward commercial viability.
