A UK project, called FlyZero, today unveiled a concept for a midsize plane powered by liquid hydrogen that could “revolutionise” air transport.
The GBP-15-million (USD 19.9m/EUR 17.6m) project is led by the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) and funded by the UK government.
A team of UK aerospace and aviation experts have developed a concept for zero-carbon emission aircraft that can carry up to 279 passengers to the farthest destinations globally with just one stop to refuel.
According to ATI, the concept shows the potential of green liquid hydrogen for decarbonising not only short haul flights but also global connectivity.
The FlyZero project will publish detailed findings in early 2022, including three final aircraft concepts, for regional, narrow-body and midsize planes.
The project has identified the on board technologies needed for zero-carbon emissions such as wings without fuel tanks, or dry wings, hydrogen tanks, cryogenic fuel systems, fuel cells and electrical power systems and hydrogen gas turbines.
“At a time of global focus on tackling climate change our midsize concept sets out a truly revolutionary vision for the future of global air travel keeping families, businesses and nations connected without the carbon footprint,” said FlyZero project director Chris Gear.
“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,” commented Transport Secretary Grant Shapps.
“These designs could define the future of aerospace and aviation. By working with industry, we are showing that truly carbon-free flight could be possible with hydrogen a front-runner to replace conventional fossil fuels,” said Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng.
The news comes as the Jet Zero Council, an industry-government partnership, will hold its fourth meeting today, ahead of International Civil Aviation Day on December 7.
Separately, the UK government said the Department for Transport has now confirmed the final funding agreements of the eight winning projects under the GBP-15-million Green Fuel, Green Skies competition, which aims to support the production of sustainable aviation fuel in the UK.
(GBP 1 = USD 1.328/EUR 1.176)
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FlyZero Midsize Concept. Image by Aerospace Technology Institute
