Zero emissions flight: The liquid hydrogen plane of the future

The UK government propose new plans for a ‘liquid hydrogen plane’, which could lead to zero emissions flight

New developments with liquid hydrogen have opened up the possibility of a theoretical aircraft able to fly 279 passengers halfway around the world, with zero emissions and only having to take one fuel stop.

Zero Emissions flying

Unveiled by the Aerospace Technology Institute ATI the Fly Zero Council Government funded project, plans for a midsize aircraft powered by hydrogen are in development.

Allowing passengers to fly long haul flights without impacting emissions would be a breakthrough in both the airspace industry and in the fight against climate change.

This project demonstrates the wide-reaching possibilities of liquid hydrogen-powered aircrafts, aiding the United Kingdom in its journey towards a cleaner and greener air travel future.

The UK Jet Zero Council, a partnership between industry and government has given the aim of “delivering ZERO emission transatlantic flights within the next generation. Driving the ambitions delivery of new technologies and innovative ways to cut aviation emissions.”

Coming shortly after the Glasgow COP26 summit, this announcement is a step to meeting the “new aviation decarbonisation goal” set by 24 countries.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “This pioneering design for a liquid hydrogen powered aircraft, led by a British organisation, brings us one step closer to a future where people can continue to travel and connect but without the carbon footprint.”

“brings us one step closer to a future where people can continue to travel and connect but without the carbon footprint”

Ground-breaking technology

According to Jet Zero Council CEO Emma Gilthorpe: “This ground-breaking green technology looks set to play a critical role in decarbonising flight and through the work of the Jet Zero Council, the UK aviation sector is exploring all avenues to ensure we protect the benefits of flying for future generations while cutting the carbon cost.”

This government funded plan will play a major part in the future of aviation for the United Kingdom and transatlantic travel.