Hydrogen-powered private jets will cut emissions
AVIATION & AIRPORTS

Hydrogen-powered private jets will cut emissions

The concept of hydrogen-powered jets remains in its developmental stages and has yet to materialise as a viable option for travelers. Aviation, responsible for over 2% of global carbon dioxide emissions, particularly highlights the carbon intensity of private jets, which emit significantly more pollution per passenger compared to commercial flights or trains. While some private jet users resort to carbon offsets, several startups propose hydrogen-powered aircraft as an alternative. Hydrogen, capable of replacing fossil fuels without emitting carbon dioxide, holds promise for cleaner aviation. However, its efficacy is yet to be validated, prompting debates on whether its adoption in private aviation serves as a climate solution or a risky venture for the affluent.

For now, the prospect of flying on hydrogen-powered jets remains theoretical. French startup Beyond Aero aims to launch a six-seat hydrogen jet by 2030, having garnered interest from prospective buyers and airlines. Similarly, Switzerland-based Sirius Aviation AG is developing hydrogen-powered private jets, receiving prepayments from affluent individuals for yet-to-be-built aircraft. These initiatives seek to address environmental concerns associated with air travel, potentially alleviating "flight shame" among eco-conscious travellers.

Hydrogen, being the most abundant element in the universe, presents opportunities for various applications, including aviation. However, its extraction and utilisation entail challenges.

While the industry transitions towards producing more "green hydrogen" from renewable sources, its current output remains minimal. Nonetheless, hydrogen holds promise for sectors requiring intense heat, although its use in private aviation raises questions about prioritisation.

Although airlines explore alternative fuels and battery-powered planes, hydrogen-powered aircraft could play a significant role, potentially serving a third of passenger aviation traffic by 2050. However, several obstacles must be overcome, including technological advancements, regulatory approvals, the scalability of green hydrogen production, infrastructure development, and cost-effectiveness.

Despite the optimism surrounding hydrogen-powered aviation, uncertainties persist. Drawing parallels to the evolution of electric vehicles, proponents anticipate advancements in technology and cost reductions over time. Both Sirius Aviation and Beyond Aero aim to expand their offerings to include larger commercial aircraft as technology matures.

Nonetheless, the track record of hydrogen cars serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the challenges of challenging existing norms and competing with alternative green technologies. In the interim, adopting lower-emission travel options could mitigate carbon footprints, as demonstrated by the shift towards more sustainable transportation choices by entities like Futbol Club Barcelona and initiatives such as those led by celebrities like Billie Eilish.

The concept of hydrogen-powered jets remains in its developmental stages and has yet to materialise as a viable option for travelers. Aviation, responsible for over 2% of global carbon dioxide emissions, particularly highlights the carbon intensity of private jets, which emit significantly more pollution per passenger compared to commercial flights or trains. While some private jet users resort to carbon offsets, several startups propose hydrogen-powered aircraft as an alternative. Hydrogen, capable of replacing fossil fuels without emitting carbon dioxide, holds promise for cleaner aviation. However, its efficacy is yet to be validated, prompting debates on whether its adoption in private aviation serves as a climate solution or a risky venture for the affluent. For now, the prospect of flying on hydrogen-powered jets remains theoretical. French startup Beyond Aero aims to launch a six-seat hydrogen jet by 2030, having garnered interest from prospective buyers and airlines. Similarly, Switzerland-based Sirius Aviation AG is developing hydrogen-powered private jets, receiving prepayments from affluent individuals for yet-to-be-built aircraft. These initiatives seek to address environmental concerns associated with air travel, potentially alleviating flight shame among eco-conscious travellers. Hydrogen, being the most abundant element in the universe, presents opportunities for various applications, including aviation. However, its extraction and utilisation entail challenges. While the industry transitions towards producing more green hydrogen from renewable sources, its current output remains minimal. Nonetheless, hydrogen holds promise for sectors requiring intense heat, although its use in private aviation raises questions about prioritisation. Although airlines explore alternative fuels and battery-powered planes, hydrogen-powered aircraft could play a significant role, potentially serving a third of passenger aviation traffic by 2050. However, several obstacles must be overcome, including technological advancements, regulatory approvals, the scalability of green hydrogen production, infrastructure development, and cost-effectiveness. Despite the optimism surrounding hydrogen-powered aviation, uncertainties persist. Drawing parallels to the evolution of electric vehicles, proponents anticipate advancements in technology and cost reductions over time. Both Sirius Aviation and Beyond Aero aim to expand their offerings to include larger commercial aircraft as technology matures. Nonetheless, the track record of hydrogen cars serves as a cautionary tale, illustrating the challenges of challenging existing norms and competing with alternative green technologies. In the interim, adopting lower-emission travel options could mitigate carbon footprints, as demonstrated by the shift towards more sustainable transportation choices by entities like Futbol Club Barcelona and initiatives such as those led by celebrities like Billie Eilish.

Next Story
Resources

Ajmera Realty launches tree drive on Environment Day

Ajmera Realty & Infra India marked World Environment Day with a large-scale tree plantation initiative—Plant-with-Purpose—across its projects in Mumbai and Bangalore. The drive was inaugurated at Ajmera Manhattan and Ajmera Greenfinity in Wadala, with senior company officials and residents in attendance. The campaign encourages residents to embrace eco-conscious, self-reliant lifestyles by growing useful plants and trees within their communities. Horticulture expert Devendra Bhekar guided residents on creating and maintaining green spaces. Ajmera Realty planted over 500 trees..

Next Story
Resources

Twaron®-reinforced tyre powers Brunel’s solar race car

Teijin Aramid’s Twaron® with circular content will debut in Bridgestone’s race tyres for the 2025 Bridgestone World Solar Challenge, supporting the Brunel Solar Team’s Nuna 13 car. This marks the first use of the recycled-content aramid in a high-performance race tyre. The Twaron®-reinforced belts help enhance durability, reduce rolling resistance, and maintain lightweight strength—critical for the 3,000-km solar race across Australia. Bridgestone combines this with ENLITENTM tech and other recycled inputs to maximise environmental and performance outcomes. Teijin Aramid, a..

Next Story
Building Material

Kamdhenu Paints launches new wood coating range

Kamdhenu Paints has launched a comprehensive premium wood coating range designed for both interior and exterior applications. The collection includes high-performance solutions like Kamwood 2K PU for a rich matt or high-gloss finish, Kamwood 1K PU for clarity and stain protection, and the Kamwood Melamyne system for a smooth, durable finish. Also featured are Kamwood Wood Stains, which enhance wood grains with vibrant colour, and NC Sanding Sealer for high-build grain filling. The range is supported by Kamwood Thinners for ease of application and optimal finish. Saurabh Agarwal, MD, ..

Advertisement

Advertisement

Subscribe to Our Newsletter

Get daily newsletters around different themes from Construction world.

STAY CONNECTED

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Advertisement

Talk to us?