However, success will depend on technological advancements, regulatory support, and infrastructure investment.
Introduction
The aviation sector is undergoing a transformation, with hydrogen emerging as a key enabler of sustainable air travel. At the Foresight Hydrogen Mobility Conference 2025, leading experts from Cranfield Aerospace Solutions, the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), Cranfield University, and the UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) explored the opportunities and challenges of integrating hydrogen into aviation.
The session examined technological advancements, regulatory hurdles, and the infrastructure needed to support hydrogen-powered aircraft, as well as the realistic timeline for deployment.
Hydrogen-Powered Aviation: The Technological Shift
Aircraft Development & Hydrogen Propulsion
Cranfield Aerospace Solutions (CAeS) presented its hydrogen-electric conversion of the Britten-Norman Islander aircraft, which aims to be the first certified hydrogen-powered passenger aircraft. The project, expected to achieve commercial certification by 2027, will provide a zero-emission alternative for regional air travel.
Key innovations discussed included:
Hydrogen fuel cell integration – Producing electricity to power electric motors with zero emissions.
Lightweight hydrogen storage solutions – Balancing aircraft weight while ensuring sufficient range.
Hybrid-electric propulsion concepts – Combining fuel cells and battery technology for optimal performance.
While hydrogen-powered aircraft are advancing rapidly, the industry faces engineering challenges in thermal management, storage efficiency, and power density.
Regulatory Challenges & Certification
UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) on Hydrogen Regulations
The CAA is working to adapt aviation regulations to accommodate hydrogen-powered aircraft. Key points raised included:
Certification framework updates – Ensuring hydrogen aircraft meet safety and operational standards.
Fuel safety & handling – Developing protocols for hydrogen storage, refueling, and maintenance.
Cross-sector collaboration – Engaging with international regulators (EASA, FAA) to create harmonised global hydrogen aviation standards.
Despite ongoing efforts, certification remains a major bottleneck, with the industry urging regulators to accelerate the approval process to match technological advancements.
Hydrogen Infrastructure & Airport Readiness
Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) on Hydrogen Infrastructure
Airports will play a critical role in enabling hydrogen adoption for aviation. The ATI highlighted key requirements for hydrogen integration at airports, including:
Hydrogen refueling hubs – Developing liquid and gaseous hydrogen refueling stations.
Airport safety protocols – Training personnel and establishing risk management frameworks.
Hydrogen supply chain development – Ensuring a reliable and cost-effective supply of hydrogen for aviation use.
Several pilot projects are already underway, with Heathrow, Teesside, and Cranfield Airport exploring on-site hydrogen storage and distribution models.
Challenges & Industry Roadmap
Key Barriers to Hydrogen Aviation
While hydrogen offers a zero-emission pathway for aviation, the session identified major hurdles:
Storage and Weight – Hydrogen’s low energy density requires advanced storage solutions to achieve long-haul viability.
Refueling Time & Infrastructure Costs – Airport modifications and hydrogen supply chain expansion will require significant investment.
Regulatory Uncertainty – Delays in certification could slow the adoption of hydrogen-powered aircraft.
Industry Roadmap for Hydrogen Aviation
The timeline for hydrogen in aviation was outlined as follows:
2025-2030: Regional hydrogen aircraft in commercial operation.
2030-2040: Expansion of hydrogen infrastructure at major airports.
2040-2050: Hydrogen adoption for mid-range and potentially long-haul aviation.
The industry is calling for closer collaboration between aircraft manufacturers, airports, regulators, and hydrogen suppliers to accelerate commercial deployment.
Conclusion & Next Steps
Hydrogen has the potential to revolutionise aviation, providing a zero-emission alternative for regional and eventually long-haul flights. However, success will depend on technological advancements, regulatory support, and infrastructure investment.
The Foresight Hydrogen Mobility Conference 2025 highlighted the need for urgent action in policy alignment, investment incentives, and global regulatory harmonisation to ensure hydrogen aviation can scale effectively.
As the industry moves forward, stakeholders must work together to accelerate certification, expand hydrogen infrastructure, and bring the first hydrogen-powered aircraft into commercial service.