UK Government Expands Work To Launch Hydrogen-powered Air Transport

UK Expands Work To Launch Hydrogen-powered Air Transport

Civil Aviation Authority has launched the second round of its Hydrogen Challenge

ZeroAvia hydrogen refueling process — ZeroAvia’s work to develop hydrogen refueling infrastructure for airports and aircraft is part of the UK’s Hydrogen Challenge project.

By Charles Alcock • Managing Editor

February 3, 2025

The UK Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has launched a second round of its Hydrogen Challenge program, which aims to foster industry collaboration to boost the adoption of hydrogen propulsion by the air transport sector. Announced on February 3, this round is expected to expand the scope of existing research and development work and operational trials.

According to the CAA, the next stage of the Hydrogen Challenge will cover four areas of work involving companies and academic institutions. These include the following: new aircraft designs combining fuel cell-based hydrogen propulsion systems and remotely-piloted operations; airport infrastructure changes, including fuel storage and delivery provision; new scientific research into hydrogen fuel; and a series of flight trials, safety assessments, and demonstrations to refine operational performance and address regulatory challenges.

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