Imagine replacing a plane's thirsty jet engine with a giant, clean battery that runs on liquid hydrogen. This project builds a powerful electric motor system that turns hydrogen into thrust without emitting CO2. It's like creating a high-performance electric powertrain that is light enough to fly and powerful enough to carry 19 passengers.
Current aircraft propulsion relies on carbon-heavy fuels, and existing electric alternatives lack the power density and efficiency required for regional flights. There is a critical gap in certified, high-power hydrogen systems that can operate at high altitudes.
A TRL 4 ground demonstrator of a propulsion system featuring 1MW fuel cell modules, a load-bearing cryogenic tank, and a high-efficiency DC/DC converter system.
If you are a plane builder dealing with strict CO2 emission targets — this project developed a 2 MW propulsion system that allows 19-pax aircraft to fly without carbon emissions. It provides a clear path to entry-into-service by 2030.
If you are a parts supplier dealing with overheating in high-power electronics — this project developed next-generation microtube heat exchangers and a tightly integrated thermal management system. This ensures efficiency even at flight altitudes up to FL450.
If you are a tank maker dealing with fuel boil-off and heavy containers — this project developed a load-bearing cryogenic tank with a 35% gravimetric index for small planes. This technology is scalable up to 50% for larger regional aircraft.
Based on available project data, specific pricing or cost figures are not provided; however, the project aims for lower operational costs through zero CO2 emissions.
Yes, the system uses 1MW modules that can be paralleled to exceed 3 MW. The cryogenic tank is also scalable up to 50% for regional aircraft.
Based on available project data, there is no specific mention of licensing terms or IP distribution among the 23 partners.
The project targets entry-into-service for CS-23 aircraft by 2030 and regional aircraft by 2035.
It uses redundant modular bus-tie DC/DC converters with >98% efficiency and a high availability control system architecture to manage power distribution.
The consortium is heavily industry-driven, with 17 industrial partners (74% of the group) and 3 SMEs, indicating a strong push toward commercialization rather than pure research. Led by Honeywell International SRO and involving 23 partners across 11 countries, the group combines deep aerospace expertise with specialized knowledge in cryogenic storage and power electronics.
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