Airbus announces plan for zero-emission plane by 2035

Concept designs for the world’s first zero-emission commercial aircraft have been revealed by Airbus.

The three concepts each represent a different approach to achieving zero-emission flight in the next decade.

They will explore various technology pathways and aerodynamic configurations - with a plan to launch the plane by 2035.

The announcement has been made on #ZeroEmissionsDay to show the firm's bold agenda and ensure the aviation industry is part of the global zero-emissions conversation.

It is hoped that Broughton in North Wales will be at the forefront of wing production of the plane chosen to take Airbus to a zero emissions future.

All of these concepts rely on hydrogen as a primary power source - an option which Airbus believes holds exceptional promise as a clean aviation fuel and is likely to be a solution for aerospace and many other industries to meet their climate-neutral targets.

"This is a historic moment for the commercial aviation sector as a whole and we intend to play a leading role in the most important transition this industry has ever seen. The concepts we unveil today offer the world a glimpse of our ambition to drive a bold vision for the future of zero-emission flight,” said Guillaume Faury, Airbus CEO.

“I strongly believe that the use of hydrogen - both in synthetic fuels and as a primary power source for commercial aircraft - has the potential to significantly reduce aviation's climate impact.”

The three concepts:

Turbofan

Airbus has revealed three concepts for the world’s first zero-emission commercial aircraft which could enter service by 2035. A turbofan design. (Daily Post Wales)

A turbofan design (120-200 passengers) with a range of 2,000+ nautical miles, capable of operating transcontinentally and powered by a modified gas-turbine engine running on hydrogen, rather than jet fuel, through combustion. The liquid hydrogen will be stored and distributed via tanks located behind the rear pressure bulkhead.

Turboprop

Airbus has revealed three concepts for the world’s first zero-emission commercial aircraft which could enter service by 2035. A turboprop design (Daily Post Wales)

A turboprop design (up to 100 passengers) using a turboprop engine instead of a turbofan and also powered by hydrogen combustion in modified gas-turbine engines, which would be capable of traveling more than 1,000 nautical miles, making it a perfect option for short-haul trips.

Blended wing

Airbus has revealed three concepts for the world’s first zero-emission commercial aircraft which could enter service by 2035. A “blended-wing body” design (Daily Post Wales)

A “blended-wing body” design (up to 200 passengers) concept in which the wings merge with the main body of the aircraft with a range similar to that of the turbofan concept. The exceptionally wide fuselage opens up multiple options for hydrogen storage and distribution, and for cabin layout.

Airbus added: "In order to tackle these challenges, airports will require significant hydrogen transport and refueling infrastructure to meet the needs of day-to-day operations.

"Support from governments will be key to meet these ambitious objectives with increased funding for research & technology, digitalisation, and mechanisms that encourage the use of sustainable fuels and the renewal of aircraft fleets to allow airlines to retire older, less environmentally friendly aircraft earlier."