Improved Power Density Enables Streamlined Design
Airbus revealed an updated design for its 100-seat hydrogen-powered airliner on Tuesday, showcasing four wing-mounted open-rotor propulsion systems instead of the six-engine configuration presented in December 2020. During the Airbus Summit in Toulouse, Glenn Llewellyn, VP of the ZeroE project, attributed this change to significant advancements in power density.
The European aerospace manufacturer recently acknowledged that its hydrogen airliner won’t meet the original 2035 market entry timeline, shifting focus to a commercial launch in the late 2030s.
“We’ve made progress developing a fully hydrogen-electric aircraft, but the ecosystem isn’t ready,” explained Bruno Fichefeux, Head of Future Programs at Airbus. “This timeline adjustment gives us the opportunity to enhance aircraft performance to compete effectively in the market.”
Hydrogen Propulsion System Testing Planned for 2027
The ZeroE team aims to test a complete hydrogen propulsion system by 2027, including engines, storage, and distribution technology. Llewellyn highlighted ongoing improvements:
- Lighter, more aerodynamic fuel cells
- More compact, energy-dense components
- Refined hydrogen storage technology
- Transition from pressure-fed tanks to integrated pump systems
Cryogenic Innovation Enhances Efficiency
The expanded ZeroE program now includes collaboration with Airbus UpNext technology incubator to develop a cryogenic propeller demonstrator. This innovation leverages hydrogen fuel’s ultra-low temperature (-252°C) to cool electronics and electrical components throughout the propulsion system, reducing electrical resistance and improving energy efficiency.
Airbus demonstrated a 1.2-MW hydrogen propulsion system in 2023 and has since expanded testing to cover integrated components:
- Fuel stacks
- Electric motors
- Gearboxes
- Inverters
- Heat exchangers
Working with Air Liquide Advanced Technologies, Airbus has established the Liquid Hydrogen BreadBoard test facility in Grenoble, France. The planned 2027 integrated system testing will take place at the Electric Aircraft System Test House in Munich.
Next-Generation A320 Successor Development Accelerates
Simultaneously, Airbus is advancing development of its next-generation single-aisle airliner to succeed the A320 family. This aircraft will:
- Operate on 100% sustainable aviation fuel
- Deliver 20-30% reduction in fuel consumption
- Feature innovative wing design
- Incorporate lighter airframe materials
“Today’s technology is developing faster than ever before, and we’re creating a radically different aircraft,” said Karim Mokaddem, Airbus Head of Aircraft of Tomorrow.
Mokaddem noted that success depends on “a robust supply chain, and potentially a sovereign European supply chain given current challenges,” referencing increasing transatlantic tensions over tariffs and industrial partnerships.
GE Aerospace and Safran Partnership Continues
Despite supply chain concerns, GE Aerospace and French partner Safran remain central to Airbus’ single-aisle innovation through their CFM International joint venture. The partnership is developing the Rise open fan engine, scheduled for demonstration flights later this decade.
According to Mohamed Ali, GE Aerospace’s Chief Technology and Operations Officer, this engine will provide Airbus with a bypass ratio of approximately 60:1, compared to current 12:1 technology.
Advanced Wing Design Addresses Airport Compatibility
To achieve greater lift with less drag, Airbus is developing longer, more slender wings. Sue Partridge, head of Airbus’ Wing of Tomorrow unit, explained that this design requires foldable outer wing sections during taxiing to ensure compatibility with existing airport gates.
Did You Know? Komatsu’s Hydrogen-Powered Mining Dump Truck
