In the race towards sustainable aviation, hydrogen emerges as the frontrunner, with Airbus paving the way through its ZeroE initiative aimed at hydrogen airliners by 2035. However, the journey towards commercial hydrogen aircraft has been accelerated by innovative endeavors.
Universal Hydrogen, a pioneering LA-based fuel logistics startup, has embarked on a groundbreaking project to equip existing airliners with retrofittable hydrogen powertrains. Their ambitious plan involves testing a hydrogen-powered 40-seat De Havilland Canada DHC8-Q300, popularly known as the Dash-8, slated to become the world’s largest hydrogen-fueled commercial aircraft.
While Airbus opts for modified gas turbines burning hydrogen as a combustion fuel, Universal is trailblazing with a fully electric fuel-cell powertrain, featuring Magnix electric motors to drive the Dash-8’s turboprops. Leveraging experience from powering the world’s largest electric aircraft, Universal’s approach promises efficiency and sustainability.
The hydrogen-powered Dash-8 boasts two-megawatt Magnix electric motors, offering enhanced power compared to standard Pratt & Whitney turboprop motors. Functioning akin to a battery, hydrogen produces electricity when passed through the aircraft’s fuel cells.
Despite accommodating large hydrogen modules that replace some seats, the Dash-8’s range is impressive, reaching around 400 nautical miles plus reserve on gaseous hydrogen. This signifies a significant step towards covering 75 percent of current Dash-8 flight routes, with prospects for further expansion upon implementing a liquid hydrogen system.
Fueling logistics are streamlined, with standard cargo-loading equipment or forklifts handling hydrogen modules treated as dry freight. Universal aims for commercial service by 2024, promising passenger prices equivalent to regular Dash-8 trips despite the unique fuel and limited seats.
With approximately 2,200 compatible Dash-8 aircraft globally, Universal’s retrofit solution holds promise, alongside ongoing efforts to incorporate hydrogen systems into new aircraft designs.
Hydrogen’s high energy density and diverse production methods render it ideal for weight-sensitive aviation applications compared to lithium batteries. Safety remains paramount, with Universal committed to rigorous testing, addressing concerns regarding hydrogen’s safety profile compared to traditional aviation fuel.