Preliminary hydrogen agreements with Icelandair and Airbus are being prepared by Universal Hydrogen.
Europe’s Airbus (AIR.PA) has pledged to introduce 100-seat hydrogen-powered aircraft by 2035. Globally, Universal Hydrogen plans to replace turboprop engines with fuel cells fed by modular hydrogen capsules by 2025.
Instead of traditional turboprops, the kits include a fuel cell and an electric powertrain. Long-term contracts to transport gasoline via modular capsules can offset the cost of investing in airplane kits. With some seats removed to accommodate the hydrogen capsules, the propellers remain visible to passengers while the engine and fuel system changes.
Both Ravn and Icelandair fly De Havilland Canada DHC-8 turboprops (Dash 8). Universal Hydrogen’s kits can convert Dash 8 and ATR power systems.
The EU’s climate strategy is expected to contain high targets for alternative aviation fuels sourced from waste sources. Universal Hydrogen also plans to work with Deutsche Aircraft on a design study for a new Dornier 328 regional turboprop.
