The Hydrogen Aviation Strategy Act, introduced by U.S. Senator Jon Ossoff, Senator Lindsey Graham, and Congressman Hank Johnson, has officially become law. This bipartisan bill aims to promote the use of hydrogen energy in aviation.
Key Points of the Law
- Bipartisan Effort: Introduced by Senators Ossoff (D-GA) and Graham (R-SC), and Rep. Johnson (D-GA), this law is a result of cross-party collaboration.
- FAA’s Role: The law mandates the Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) to research and develop strategies for hydrogen fuel use in aviation within the next year.
- Industry Collaboration: The FAA will work with airlines, hydrogen producers, and other industry partners to advance this technology.
- Advisory Committee: A new advisory committee will be established to make recommendations on adopting hydrogen as an aviation energy source.
Statements from Key Supporters
Senator Jon Ossoff expressed his gratitude for the bipartisan support, saying, “I’m grateful to my colleagues in both parties for passing our bill to strengthen research and development of hydrogen as a next-generation fuel for the aviation sector.”
Senator Lindsey Graham highlighted the importance of continued exploration in hydrogen advancements, stating, “I look forward to working with my colleagues to further explore advancements in hydrogen production and its integration throughout the aviation industry.”
Congressman Hank Johnson emphasized the benefits of the law, noting, “The Hydrogen Aviation Strategy Act is a good first step. This law will create good-paying Georgia jobs, provide greater energy security for the nation, and reduce greenhouse emissions to fight climate change.”
Industry and Academic Support
Amelia DeLuca, Delta’s Chief Sustainability Officer, praised the law, saying, “We are committed to working with leaders to decarbonize the future of flight and commend our leaders in Washington for prioritizing hydrogen research and development in the final FAA Reauthorization bill.”
Dr. Tim Lieuwen from Georgia Tech stated, “I’m thankful to Sen. Ossoff for his leadership in passing this bill that makes longer-range investments to enable game-changing capabilities for zero-carbon aviation.”
Mark Burns, President of Gulfstream, recognized Sen. Ossoff’s efforts in championing hydrogen energy research, noting, “Sen. Ossoff continues to strengthen American energy security by championing hydrogen energy research and investments for Georgia and the Southeast.”
Background and Future Steps
Senator Ossoff, along with Georgia Public Service Commissioner Tim Echols, previously launched the Georgia Hydrogen Energy Braintrust to enhance energy security and attract economic investment to Georgia. In 2022, Sen. Ossoff also organized a roundtable with leaders from various sectors to discuss advancing hydrogen energy innovation in the state.
The Hydrogen Aviation Strategy Act represents a significant step forward in the quest for cleaner, more sustainable aviation energy sources, promising a future with reduced greenhouse emissions and enhanced energy security.
