As the aviation industry strives towards achieving net zero emissions, hydrogen-powered aircraft have emerged as a promising solution for decarbonising the sector in a way that does not compromise our way of life. Hydrogen fuel produces no operational carbon emissions, unlike other technologies. The benefits of achieving net zero extend beyond just reducing carbon emissions. It can also safeguard existing industries and employment while creating new job opportunities, increasing economic activity, and improving lives.
The UK government and industry have already committed to reaching net zero by 2050, and the aviation sector is actively working towards delivering zero-emission flights with initiatives such as the Jet Zero Council.
Decarbonising aviation is an opportunity to preserve the advantages that come with it, such as protecting a thriving, world-leading UK industry, direct and indirect economic and employment benefits, our current lifestyle, which is reliant on aviation in many ways, and the experience of flying, which will remain unchanged on a hydrogen plane just as it is today.
The Climate Change Committee (CCC) has recognised the role of hydrogen aviation in achieving net zero. The DfT’s Jet Zero Strategy also acknowledges that zero-carbon liquid hydrogen offers a 100% reduction in lifetime CO2 emissions and no tailpipe CO2 emissions relative to kerosene.[1]
The UK is well-positioned to become a world leader in hydrogen aviation. By transitioning to hydrogen-powered aircraft, the UK can protect and grow existing workforces while exporting new technologies and knowledge. This shift will also help support the UK’s development of a hydrogen economy, which can lead to additional economic growth and job creation.