Why Airbus and others are betting on hydrogen-powered planes instead of electric planes

▤ Summary

One proposed solution rivals the power of fossil fuels without the emissions — hydrogen. With the industry attempting to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050, both big players like Airbus and startups alike are exploring the technology. Airbus announced concept designs for several zero-emission, hydrogen-powered planes in 2020 and intends to test a hydrogen engine on an A380 in 2026. Both have recently completed test flights with regional-sized planes and are hoping to enter the market by 2025. But significant challenges lie ahead, from getting regulatory approval to developing the hydrogen infrastructure.

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