UK Civil Aviation Authority collaborates with leading companies to advance hydrogen fuel technology in aviation

Credit: UK Civil Aviation Authority

Several leading UK companies are collaborating with the UK Civil Aviation Authority to advance technology and infrastructure for the future, aiming to support the widespread adoption of hydrogen fuel in aviation. This initiative is part of the regulator’s efforts to drive aerospace growth by fostering innovation and industry partnerships.

Tim Johnson, Director of Communications, Strategy and Policy at the UK Civil Aviation Authority, said:

“These trials keep the UK on course to be a world leader in hydrogen propulsion.

“We are working with some of the most innovative companies and minds to better understand this technology and how it might be introduced safely in the aerospace sector. 

“In doing so, it offers the potential to enable a more sustainable aerospace system and support UK economic growth.”

The projects will create a better understanding of hydrogen technologies, shape future regulations, and ensure that they are safely adopted into the aerospace sector.

What are the key developments in the next phase of the Hydrogen Challenge?   

The next stage of the Hydrogen Challenge will see the development of:

• New designs of cutting-edge aircraft that use hydrogen fuel cell power systems and remotely piloted systems to drive down carbon emissions.
• Changes to airport infrastructure that could be rolled out nationwide in future, paving the way for hydrogen including safe storage and refuelling. 
• New scientific research by some of Britain’s leading aeronautical institutes that will expand our understanding of this new fuel.
• Flight trials, safety assessments, and demos to refine performance, address regulatory challenges, and unlock the full potential of the technology.