FutureFlight
Universal Hydrogen To Build Manufacturing and Distribution Center in Albuquerque
The company wants the New Mexico plant to be ready to start production in 2024, to support the first planned commercial flights by converted airliners in 2025.
Universal Hydrogen is developing a plan to load hydrogen fuel into aircraft in pre-filled capsules.
Universal Hydrogen is developing a plan to load hydrogen fuel into aircraft in pre-filled capsules. (Image: Universal Hydrogen)

Universal Hydrogen is to establish its manufacturing and distribution center for its hydrogen aircraft propulsion systems in Albuquerque, New Mexico. The California-based start-up this week signed an agreement with New Mexico's governor, Michelle Lujan Grisham, to develop the facility on 50 acres at the city’s main airport, which is called the Albuquerque International Sunport. The plan is for it to be ready to start production in 2024 to support commercial flights beginning in 2025.

The company is working on a hydrogen fuel cell powertrain that will be used to convert regional airliners such as the Dash 8 and ATR72 twin turboprops. Its concept calls for green hydrogen to be supplied directly to airports in capsules and fitted directly into a compartment at the rear of the aircraft fuselage.