Following the news that Airbus is strengthening its presence in the UK with the launch of a Zero Emission Development Centre (ZEDC) for hydrogen technologies;

Harry Boneham, Aerospace Analyst at GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company, offers his view:

“Airbus is pushing ahead with the development of hydrogen technology, pursuing its self-imposed 2035 deadline for the fielding of the first zero-emission passenger aircraft. GlobalData notes that hydrogen aircraft are a feasible reality by 2040*, so if Airbus can meet its deadline, it would be a remarkable achievement and cement the company as the leader of a future green aviation market.

“Airbus’ decision to open a new ZEDC in Bristol can also be seen as a success for the UK government, which in recent years has sought to stimulate the development of a green aerospace industrial base in the UK. In March 2022, the government announced a £685 million fund for the Aerospace Technology Institute. This follows a £200 million fund that was provided in 2020.

“It was the former of these two funds that attracted Airbus to the UK. The firm already has facilities in Madrid, Stade, Nantes, and Bremen. However, with these additional funds, it makes sense for the company to increase its UK footprint, creating jobs and bringing the company one step closer towards its 2035 deadline.”

*Information taken from GlobalData’s report: Hydrogen Aircraft (Market Size, Advancements and Key Programs) – Thematic Research