- At the 2025 summit, Airbus reaffirmed its commitment to hydrogen-powered aviation, unveiling a next-generation aircraft concept with 2MW electric propulsion engines and advanced fuel cell systems.
- Airbus continues to develop key hydrogen technologies while collaborating with industry partners to build the necessary infrastructure for large-scale hydrogen aviation.
At its annual summit, Airbus reaffirmed its commitment to hydrogen technology in aviation. The company shared updates on its vision, including plans for a new single-aisle aircraft by the 2030s. It also announced progress in the ZEROe project, which focuses on hydrogen-powered aviation.
Bruno Fichefeux, Airbus’ Head of Future Programmes, stressed the role of hydrogen in sustainability. He said, “Hydrogen is key to making aviation greener. Our commitment remains strong as we refine our plans. Like electric cars changed the auto industry, hydrogen-powered aircraft can change air travel. They will work alongside sustainable aviation fuels.”
At the summit, Airbus revealed a new hydrogen aircraft design. This model has four 2-megawatt electric engines powered by hydrogen and oxygen through fuel cells. Two liquid hydrogen tanks improve efficiency and make the aircraft more sustainable.
This design is a step toward new technology rather than a final product. Airbus will test and improve these systems in the coming years. The company aims to solve challenges like hydrogen storage, distribution, and propulsion. Glenn Llewellyn, Head of the ZEROe Project, said, “After five years of research, we chose a fully electric approach. It has great potential for power and flexibility as technology improves.”
Airbus has already made progress in hydrogen-powered aviation. In 2023, it successfully tested a 1.2MW hydrogen propulsion system. In 2024, it tested key components like fuel cells, electric motors, and cooling technologies.
Airbus partnered with Air Liquide Advanced Technologies to handle liquid hydrogen in flight. Together, they created the Liquid Hydrogen BreadBoard (LH2BB). This system, developed in France, will undergo ground testing in 2027 in Munich. These tests will check how the propulsion and hydrogen systems work together.
Airbus knows that hydrogen-powered flights require more than new aircraft. The company works with aviation, energy, and government partners to build the infrastructure and rules for a hydrogen-based future.
Through teamwork and innovation, Airbus is making its vision a reality. The company is leading the way in hydrogen propulsion and sustainable air travel. The 2025 Airbus Summit sent a clear message: the future of aviation will be cleaner, greener, and powered by hydrogen.