The Sustainabilist | AVIATION
FEATURE
How Soon Will We be Flying Emission Free?
I
n September, the aerospace giant, Airbus revealed three concepts for the world’s first zero-emission commercial aircraft, which is expected to go into service by 2035.
commercial aviation sector as a whole and we intend to play a leading role in the most important transition this industry has ever seen. The concepts we unveil today offer the world a glimpse of our ambition to drive a bold vision for the future of zero-
denote a different approach to achieving zero-emission flights through a variety of sizes and styles but with each relying on hydrogen as the primary source of power, with the aim of creating potential for a decarbonised aviation industry.
Airbus CEO.
“This is a historic moment for the 39
As the first zero-emission commercial aircrafts, Airbus revealed the turbofan and the turboprop which have the designs of conventional commercial airplanes, while the blended-wing body gives a much more futuristic feel as the wings merge with the
main body of the aircraft. The turboprop is designed with two modified turboprop hydrogen-powered gas-turbine engines that will carry up to 100 passengers and travel more than 1,000 nautical miles, making it a perfect option for short-haul trips. The turbofan and winged-body designs, will instead have a higher passenger capacity of up to 200 and its range will be greater than 2,000 nautical miles. Additionally, these will be powered by modified turbofan gas-turbine engines, also powered by hydrogen combustion,
