However, Lundgren warned he would need to know how the technology would work given easyJet’s typical 30-minute turnaround time. There is also the economics of operating a 90 to 100-seat aircraft – roughly half the size of a current easyJet airliner – to be considered, along with the implications for ticket prices.
Meanwhile, engine development is continuing apace, but it is likely to be on the grounds that obstacles develop. There is little infrastructure in place for airports to store or deliver hydrogen, and a lot must be done in the next decade if Lundgren’s ambition is to be realised.
HIA’s report expects early usage will see hydrogen transported to airports via road. Later, it is expected gas would be liquefied and stored on-site at the airport once infrastructure is built.
HIA said there were plans for a national hydrogen “backbone” by the 2030s, repurposing sections of the national gas transmission network to transport hydrogen.
It called for increased government backing for fuel development, delivery and storage. “It is important the government acknowledges the importance of hydrogen liquefaction and can encourage the development of liquefaction capabilities in good time,” the report said.
Lundgren also stressed funds needed to be available for research and development. “This is an industry with very, very long lead times, so things need to start happening now,” he said.
He is also among those who think the CAA needs to take a more proactive role in regulating new fuel systems and for the government to make a firm decision on building pipelines.
GKN’s Dunn added: “We truly believe in the next decade we will see hydrogen in flight – but only if the infrastructure is there.”
’Don’t lose that lead’
The report envisages a starter network of around five airports in the UK, likely including Bristol, could be developed to establish the first regional turboprop flights. The hydrogen start-up has an advantage in that compared with conventional sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), there will be less demand, given its limitations.
The report said: “Hydrogen-powered aviation will require an estimated 350,000 tonnes of hydrogen by 2050, ramping up from around 20,000 tonnes in 2035. At the earlier stages of innovation, testing, and R&D up until 2030, hydrogen demand is expected to be 11 to 22 tonnes per quarter.”