Brazil-based global major aerospace group Embraer and UK-based global major Tier 1 aerostructures, engine systems and special products group GKN Aerospace have announced, at the Paris Air Show, that they have agreed to work together on latest-technology hydrogen technologies for use in aviation. The agreement covers hydrogen research and development programmes, feasibility studies and the possible development of a hydrogen flight demonstrator aircraft.

The agreement is intended to form part of the two groups’ commitment to helping the global commercial aviation industry achieve net-zero carbon emissions status by 2050. This is an internationally-agreed target date. The two groups will make use of their respective and extensive expertise and resources to drive the development of innovative hydrogen fuel cell technology and ensure airframe systems integration optimisation.

“The imperativeness of sustainability drives research and development programmes at Embraer, and the potential development of a hydrogen flight demonstrator represents an important milestone in our technology roadmap toward the future of sustainable aviation,” affirmed Embraer senior VP engineering & technological development Luís Carlos Affonso. “It is a pleasure to have GKN Aerospace as a partner in this technological journey with us.”

GKN Aerospace is already playing a leading role in other collaborative hydrogen programmes, in the Netherlands, Sweden and its UK home base. Its flagship hydrogen project is designated H2Gear, and aims to develop a very efficient liquid hydrogen propulsion system for sub-regional aircraft, which would have the potential to be scaled up to power larger aircraft. This system would convert liquid hydrogen into electricity within a cutting-edge technology fuel cell system. Efficient use of this electricity would result in zero-emissions aircraft operation. This would revolutionise the air transport sector and ensure its sustainability.

“Hydrogen-powered aviation represents a tangible and compelling solution for achieving zero-emissions flight,” highlighted GKN Aerospace chief technology officer Ross Dunn. “Advancing this pioneering technology to the next level necessitates unparalleled collaboration within the industry, as exemplified by our partnership with Embraer as well as combining expertise of aerospace ecosystems in our countries and support across governments.”