Airbus forecasts first zero-emission jets to take flight by 2035

Airbus is forecasting the first zero-emission commercial aircraft will take to the skies by 2035 as it unveiled computer-generated images of hydrogen-powered planes that could pave the way for a carbon-free future. The European aerospace manufacturer on Monday released images of three zero-emission concepts, which rely on hydrogen as their primary power source. “The concepts offer the world a glimpse of our ambition to drive a bold vision for the future of zero-emission flight,” said Guillaume Faury, Airbus CE. “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.” Airbus said one of the concepts, which blend the wings into the main body, would be powered by a “modified gas-turbine engine running on hydrogen, rather than jet fuel, through combustion”. The company added that replacing traditional jet fuel with hydrogen could reduce CO2 emissions from the aviation industry by up to 50%. Airbus vice-president for zero-emission aircraft Glenn Llewellyn said government support would be needed to design and manufacture the aircraft, although he declined to give a figure for costs. The company is hoping demonstration models will be in operation before 2025, with a full-scale concept ready some time later this decade.<br/>