Airbus has signed a partnership agreement with CFM International, a joint venture between GE and Safran Aircraft Engines, to collaborate on a hydrogen demonstrator that will take flight around the middle of the decade.

The objective is to flight test a direct hydrogen combustion engine in preparation for entry-into-service of a zero-emission aircraft by 2035. The demonstration will use a A380 flying testbed equipped with liquid hydrogen.

“This is the most significant step undertaken at Airbus to usher in a new era of hydrogen-powered flight since the unveiling of our ZEROe concepts back in September 2020,” said Sabine Klauke, Airbus chief technical officer. “By leveraging the expertise of American and European engine manufacturers to make progress on hydrogen combustion technology, this international partnership sends a clear message that our industry is committed to making zero-emission flight a reality.”

Share Story: