Aircraft
Conversion Plan Set To Promote Early Switch to Hydrogen Fuel
Universal Hydrogen proposes converting Dash 8 and ATR 42 regional airliners to hydrogen power while avoiding the need for costly refueling infrastructure.
Universal Hydrogen is proposing a conversion kit that would install hydrogen fuel modules to be fitted to the rear of existing airliners. (Image: Universal Hydrogen)
Universal Hydrogen is proposing a conversion kit that would install hydrogen fuel modules to be fitted to the rear of existing airliners. (Image: Universal Hydrogen)

Universal Hydrogen, a California-based startup co-founded by former Airbus chief technology officer Paul Eremenko, has launched plans to convert regional airliners to hydrogen power. The company says its business model will encourage early adoption of the carbon-free fuel by the air transport industry before manufacturers develop new aircraft with hydrogen propulsion as standard equipment.

Eremenko and his fellow founders maintain that hydrogen is the only clear pathway for aviation to achieve true carbon neutrality and the complexity of the required infrastructure remains the key obstacle in the way of its widespread adoption. Formed seven months ago, Universal Hydrogen recently publicized a plan to re-engine Dash 8 and ATR 42 regional airliners with fuel-cell electric propulsion and refillable hydrogen modules.