This significant demonstration forms part of the BeautHyFuel project, an initiative aimed at exploring hydrogen-based propulsion solutions for light aircraft. Backed by the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC) as part of France’s post-Covid stimulus programme, the project unites aerospace giants and SMEs, including Daher and Elixir Aviation, under the leadership of Turbotech.

Advancing Hydrogen Technology

The recent tests, conducted in September 2024, showcased the capabilities of a hydrogen-fueled turbine powered by liquid hydrogen stored at cryogenic temperatures of -250°C. This second phase follows an initial testing campaign in January 2024, where gaseous hydrogen was used to characterise the engine. For the latest trials, the team integrated a cryogenic liquid hydrogen storage system developed by Air Liquide, replicating the operational conditions of a complete aircraft.

“This achievement is a major step forward in the journey to fully decarbonise aircraft propulsion,” said Damien Fauvet, CEO of Turbotech. “Our aim was to match the energy density of conventional Avgas or Jet A-1 fuel systems while addressing the challenges of retrofitting, operability, and certification for cryogenic hydrogen propulsion solutions. Thanks to the extraordinary collaboration of aerospace leaders and SMEs, we have achieved rapid and remarkable success.”

Pierre-Alain Lambert, Vice President of Hydrogen Programmes at Safran, added: “This second stage marks the successful culmination of the project. By coupling our turbine technology with Air Liquide’s cryogenic storage system, we’ve demonstrated a complete, integrated propulsion solution capable of revolutionising light aviation.”

A Path to Decarbonised Light Aviation

The BeautHyFuel project seeks to validate hydrogen propulsion as a viable alternative for light aviation, particularly in the context of global efforts to reduce carbon emissions. The liquid hydrogen storage system, critical to the engine’s performance, provides an energy density comparable to traditional aviation fuels. The team’s efforts address operational and regulatory constraints, paving the way for the certification of future hydrogen-powered aircraft.

“This is not just a technological feat but a demonstration of the aviation industry’s commitment to sustainability,” noted Fauvet. “As the global production of green hydrogen scales up, these solutions will be ready to take flight, enabling a greener future for aviation.”

Collaborative Success

The BeautHyFuel project exemplifies the power of collaboration, bringing together expertise from various sectors to address the challenges of decarbonised propulsion. The consortium’s achievements highlight the potential of liquid hydrogen as a transformative energy source for light aircraft, setting the stage for further advancements in hydrogen-powered aviation.

As the aerospace industry continues to pursue innovative solutions to meet ambitious decarbonisation goals, the success of the BeautHyFuel project underscores the feasibility and promise of hydrogen propulsion. With its sights set on future flight demonstrations, this pioneering initiative is charting a sustainable course for the skies.