Airbus and MTU Aero Engines Partner to Advance Hydrogen Fuel Cell Propulsion in Aviation
Key Ideas
  • Airbus and MTU Aero Engines signed an MoU at the 55th Paris Airshow to collaboratively develop hydrogen fuel cell propulsion technology for aircraft.
  • The partnership aims to create a fully electric, hydrogen-powered aircraft with a fuel cell engine, leveraging Airbus' ZEROe initiative and MTU's expertise in engine innovation.
  • The agreement outlines a three-phase approach focusing on core technology advancement, aligning research roadmaps, and designing a hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft engine.
  • Both companies express confidence in the future of hydrogen-powered aviation, emphasizing the potential for emissions-free flight and the advancement of aviation technology.
Airbus and MTU Aero Engines have joined forces in a partnership to advance hydrogen fuel cell propulsion technology for the aviation industry. The collaboration, formalized during the 55th Paris Airshow, signifies a major milestone in decarbonizing aviation. Airbus, known for its leadership in hydrogen-powered aviation through the ZEROe initiative, and MTU Aero Engines, a prominent expert in aircraft engines, are set to develop a fully electric, hydrogen-powered aircraft with a fuel cell engine. The partnership's structured approach involves three phases: core technology advancement, aligning research roadmaps, and creating a fuel cell engine for commercial aircraft. Airbus' Head of Future Programmes, Bruno Fichefeux, and MTU's SVP of Engineering and Technology, Dr Stefan Weber, are optimistic about the collaboration's potential to accelerate hydrogen propulsion technology. Both companies emphasize the importance of near-emissions-free flight and the integration of hydrogen-powered systems into aircraft platforms. MTU Aero Engines, a global leader in engine design and manufacturing, has a significant presence in commercial and military aviation. With substantial expertise in engine components and assembly, MTU supports a large portion of the world's commercial aircraft fleet. The company's commitment to advancing aviation technology is evident through its continued investments and global operations. The partnership between Airbus and MTU Aero Engines represents a strategic initiative to shape the future of aviation with sustainable and innovative solutions, ultimately driving the aviation industry towards a more environmentally friendly and technologically advanced era.
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.