Executive Summary:

Multi-Technology Approach:

Forshaw emphasized that Airbus is not relying on a single technological solution to achieve decarbonization. Instead, the company is embracing a combination of electrification, sustainable fuels, and hydrogen. Each of these technologies has its place in the aviation market. For instance, electrification will be crucial for short-haul flights and smaller aircraft, such as helicopters and commuter planes. However, due to the limitations of current battery technology—specifically weight and endurance—its application will be limited to shorter distances.

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The Role of Hydrogen in Aviation:

Hydrogen is a central focus of Airbus’s long-term strategy. The company aims to introduce a hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft by 2035, targeting short- to medium-range routes with aircraft capable of seating 80 to 100 passengers and flying up to 2,000 kilometers. Forshaw highlighted that hydrogen offers a pathway to true zero-emission aviation, a goal that sustainable fuels alone cannot achieve.

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Building a Hydrogen Ecosystem:

Forshaw stressed that the success of hydrogen-powered aviation extends beyond aircraft design. A comprehensive ecosystem must be developed, including infrastructure for hydrogen production, storage, and delivery at airports globally. Airbus is working closely with airports, energy producers, and infrastructure providers to ensure that this ecosystem will be ready to support hydrogen-powered aircraft when they enter service.

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Challenges and Regulatory Pathway:

While the technical development of hydrogen-powered aircraft is advancing, Forshaw acknowledged that commercializing this technology will be a complex and lengthy process. Achieving regulatory certification for these new aircraft will involve rigorous safety testing and could take several years. Despite these challenges, Forshaw remains optimistic about hydrogen's potential to transform the aviation industry.