Airbus is planning to set up a Zero Emission Development Centre (ZEDC) in the United Kingdom to further develop hydrogen technologies and accelerate the development of Airbus’ zero-emission aircraft.
The hydrogen technology center will be based in Filton, Bristol. A priority for the UK ZEDC will be the development of cryogenic fuel storage system needed for the Airbus’ ZEROe project, which aims to develop passenger aircraft by 2035.
“Establishing the ZEDC in the UK expands Airbus’ in-house industrial capabilities to design, develop, test and manufacture cryogenic hydrogen storage tanks and related systems for the ZEROe project across Airbus’ four home countries,” said Sabine Klauke, Airbus Chief Technical Officer.
Airbus has four zero-emission development centers across three countries, including France, Germany, and Spain. All Airbus centers are expected to be fully operational and ready for ground testing with the first fully functional cryogenic hydrogen tank during 2023, and with flight testing starting in 2026.
Airbus has already revealed that it will use the A380 as a test bed aircraft for its ZEROe project.
The International Air Transport Association (IATA) along with the global aviation players such as Airbus and Boeing have pledged to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050.
