Plans for new zero emission hydrogen plane backed by UK Government unveiled

The £15 million project could allow a passenger to fly anywhere in the world without producing any carbon emissions.

The concept aircraft has been unveiled by the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI) ahead of the fourth meeting of the Jet Zero Council, which is chaired by the Transport Secretary.

The FlyZero project, led by ATI and funded by the government, has created a concept for a midsize aircraft powered by liquid hydrogen.

The aircraft would be able to fly 279 passengers halfway around the world without a stop, or anywhere in the world with just one stop to refuel. This would allow for a zero-carbon, non-stop flight from London to San Francisco.

The government-backed project showcases the potential for liquid hydrogen powered aircrafts as the UK drives for a cleaner and greener air travel future.

This progress builds on that already achieved by the Jet Zero Council, a partnership between industry and government with the aim of delivering zero emission transatlantic flight within a generation.

Transport Secretary Grant Shapps said: “As we build back greener, it’s crucial that we place sustainability at the heart of the aviation industry’s recovery from COVID-19.”

“This pioneering design for a liquid hydrogen powered aircraft, led by a British organisation, brings us one step closer to a future where people can continue to travel and connect but without the carbon footprint.”

“I will continue to work closely with the Jet Zero Council to support the UK’s world-leading research in this sector, which will create green jobs, help us meet our ambitious net zero targets and lead the global transition to net zero aviation.”

Business Secretary Kwasi Kwarteng said: “These designs could define the future of aerospace and aviation. By working with industry, we are showing that truly carbon-free flight could be possible with hydrogen a front-runner to replace conventional fossil fuels.”

“Fuelling planes sustainably will enable the public to travel as we do now, but in a way that doesn’t damage the planet. It will not only help us to end our contribution to climate change, but also represents a huge industrial opportunity for the UK.”

This project comes after 8 companies won the £15 million Green Fuel, Green Skies competition. Each will receive a share of the funding to develop sustainable aviation fuel.