Hydrogen-powered private jets will cut emissions
AVIATION & AIRPORTS

Hydrogen-powered private jets will cut emissions

The concept of hydrogen-powered jets remains in its developmental stages and has yet to materialise as a viable option for travelers. Aviation, responsible for over 2% of global carbon dioxide emissions, particularly highlights the carbon intensity of private jets, which emit significantly more pollution per passenger compared to commercial flights or trains. While some private jet users resort to carbon offsets, several startups propose hydrogen-powered aircraft as an alternative. Hydrogen, capable of replacing fossil fuels without emitting carbon dioxide, holds promise for cleaner aviation. However, its efficacy is yet to be validated, prompting debates on whether its adoption in private aviation serves as a climate solution or a risky venture for the affluent.

For now, the prospect of flying on hydrogen-powered jets remains theoretical. French startup Beyond Aero aims to launch a six-seat hydrogen jet by 2030, having garnered interest from prospective buyers and airlines. Similarly, Switzerland-based Sirius Aviation AG is developing hydrogen-powered private jets, receiving prepayments from affluent individuals for yet-to-be-built aircraft. These initiatives seek to address environmental concerns associated with air travel, potentially alleviating "flight shame" among eco-conscious travellers.

Hydrogen, being the most abundant element in the universe, presents opportunities for various applications, including aviation. However, its extraction and utilisation entail challenges.

While the industry transitions towards producing more "green hydrogen" from renewable sources, its current output remains minimal. Nonetheless, hydrogen holds promise for sectors requiring intense heat, although its use in private aviation raises questions about prioritisation.

Although airlines explore alternative fuels and battery-powered planes, hydrogen-powered aircraft could play a significant role, potentially serving a third of passenger aviation traffic by 2050. However, several obstacles must be overcome, including technological advancements, regulatory approvals, the scalability of green hydrogen production, infrastructure development, and cost-effectiveness.

Despite the optimism surrounding hydrogen-powered aviation, uncertainties persist. Drawing parallels to the evolution of electric vehicles, proponents anticipate advancements in technology and cost reductions over time. Both Sirius Aviation and Beyond Aero aim to expand their offerings to include larger commercial aircraft as technology matures.

Nonetheless, the track record of hydrogen cars serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the challenges of challenging existing norms and competing with alternative green technologies. In the interim, adopting lower-emission travel options could mitigate carbon footprints, as demonstrated by the shift towards more sustainable transportation choices by entities like Futbol Club Barcelona and initiatives such as those led by celebrities like Billie Eilish.

The 14th RAHSTA Expo, part of the India Construction Festival, will be held on October 9 and 10, 2024, at the Jio Convention Centre in Mumbai. For more details, visit: https://rahstaexpo.com

The concept of hydrogen-powered jets remains in its developmental stages and has yet to materialise as a viable option for travelers. Aviation, responsible for over 2% of global carbon dioxide emissions, particularly highlights the carbon intensity of private jets, which emit significantly more pollution per passenger compared to commercial flights or trains. While some private jet users resort to carbon offsets, several startups propose hydrogen-powered aircraft as an alternative. Hydrogen, capable of replacing fossil fuels without emitting carbon dioxide, holds promise for cleaner aviation. However, its efficacy is yet to be validated, prompting debates on whether its adoption in private aviation serves as a climate solution or a risky venture for the affluent. For now, the prospect of flying on hydrogen-powered jets remains theoretical. French startup Beyond Aero aims to launch a six-seat hydrogen jet by 2030, having garnered interest from prospective buyers and airlines. Similarly, Switzerland-based Sirius Aviation AG is developing hydrogen-powered private jets, receiving prepayments from affluent individuals for yet-to-be-built aircraft. These initiatives seek to address environmental concerns associated with air travel, potentially alleviating flight shame among eco-conscious travellers. Hydrogen, being the most abundant element in the universe, presents opportunities for various applications, including aviation. However, its extraction and utilisation entail challenges. While the industry transitions towards producing more green hydrogen from renewable sources, its current output remains minimal. Nonetheless, hydrogen holds promise for sectors requiring intense heat, although its use in private aviation raises questions about prioritisation. Although airlines explore alternative fuels and battery-powered planes, hydrogen-powered aircraft could play a significant role, potentially serving a third of passenger aviation traffic by 2050. However, several obstacles must be overcome, including technological advancements, regulatory approvals, the scalability of green hydrogen production, infrastructure development, and cost-effectiveness. Despite the optimism surrounding hydrogen-powered aviation, uncertainties persist. Drawing parallels to the evolution of electric vehicles, proponents anticipate advancements in technology and cost reductions over time. Both Sirius Aviation and Beyond Aero aim to expand their offerings to include larger commercial aircraft as technology matures. Nonetheless, the track record of hydrogen cars serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the challenges of challenging existing norms and competing with alternative green technologies. In the interim, adopting lower-emission travel options could mitigate carbon footprints, as demonstrated by the shift towards more sustainable transportation choices by entities like Futbol Club Barcelona and initiatives such as those led by celebrities like Billie Eilish.

Next Story
Infrastructure Urban

India, US to promote sustainable aviation fuel and hydrogen in buses

India and the United States have agreed to promote sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), electrification of medium and heavy-duty vehicles, and the use of hydrogen in buses, tractors, and heavy equipment. This decision came during the Strategic Clean Energy Partnership (SCEP) dialogue between US Energy Secretary Jennifer Granholm and Indian Minister of Petroleum and Natural Gas Hardeep Singh Puri in Washington, DC. Both nations also encouraged increased investments in each other's clean energy markets. The joint statement emphasised the importance of a "just, orderly, and sustainable energy trans..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Tuticorin Airport upgradation set for December completion

Tuticorin Airport in Tamil Nadu is undergoing a significant upgrade, with an expected completion date in December 2024. The project, valued at Rs 3.81billion, is being carried out by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and involves the extension of the runway to accommodate A-321 type aircraft, construction of a new apron, a new terminal building, a technical block with a control tower, and a new fire station. The new terminal building, covering 17,500 square meters, will significantly enhance the airport's capacity, enabling it to serve 1,440 passengers during peak hours and handle up to 2 ..

Next Story
Infrastructure Transport

Airfare hike not tied to increased airport charges; ACI

The Airports Council International (ACI) stated that rising airfares are not linked to increased airport charges. Airport charges are crucial for infrastructure development within the commercial aviation ecosystem, but they remain a minimal part of the overall airfare. Stefano Baronci, Director General of ACI Asia Pacific & Middle East, emphasized that airports are infrastructure-intensive businesses, with costs dominated by maintaining essential infrastructure such as runways, taxiways, aprons, and terminal buildings. He noted that neglecting the capital expenditure needed to support future g..

Hi There!

"Now get regular updates from CW Magazine on WhatsApp!

Join the CW WhatsApp channel for the latest news, industry events, expert insights, and project updates from the construction and infrastructure industry.

Click the link below to join"

+91 81086 03000