UK Universities Launch £9.5M Programme to Develop Hydrogen-Powered Jet Engines for Net-Zero Aviation
Key Ideas
  • A £9.5M programme led by UK universities aims to develop hydrogen-powered jet engines for net-zero emissions in aviation by 2050.
  • Oxford University will focus on cryogenic fluid flow and thermal management of hydrogen fuel systems, leveraging its expertise in thermal management and materials science research.
  • The collaborative programme involves key industry partners like Rolls-Royce, Airbus, and Boeing, as well as international partners, to drive innovation in sustainable aviation.
  • Over 12 studentships are being supported across the universities involved, enhancing training opportunities for future aerospace leaders.
Leading academics from Oxford University, Imperial College London, Loughborough University, and King's College London came together at the Oxford Thermofluids Institute for the launch of a pioneering programme focused on developing hydrogen-powered jet engines. The £9.5M project, supported by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC), aims to revolutionize aviation by achieving net-zero emissions by 2050. The initiative will address scientific challenges related to using cryogenic liquid hydrogen (LH2) as fuel for gas turbines, with the goal of replacing conventional aviation fuel with hydrogen to make mid-range commercial flights carbon-neutral. Oxford University will play a key role in the program, investigating cryogenic fluid flow and thermal management of hydrogen fuel systems. The collaboration involves industry giants like Rolls-Royce, Airbus, and Boeing, as well as international partners, to drive innovation in sustainable aviation. The initiative also emphasizes the importance of training future aerospace leaders, with over 12 studentships being supported. The sentiment of the article is positive, highlighting the commitment to advancing hydrogen-powered technology and the strategic investment in future-ready aviation technologies.
ADVANCEH2

Our vision is to be the world's leading online platform for advancing the use of hydrogen as a critical piece needed to deliver net-zero initiatives and the promise of a clean H2 energy future.

© 2025 AdvanceH2, LLC. All rights reserved.