H2 View understands that Christchurch Airport has already reduced its own operational emissions by 92%, according to its CEO Justin Watson. He added, “We’re now focused on helping others transition to a low-emissions future.”

Located at the airport’s 400-hectare Kowhai Park energy precinct, the facility will enable the development of liquefiers, gas management systems, and boil-off gas management technologies.

New customers will be able to use the facility this year.

Fabrum’s Chief Executive, Dr. Ojas Mahapatra, said the company is already working with aviation companies to develop liquid hydrogen storage systems.

Dr. Mahapatra continued, “Our customers will be among the first to test the performance and reliability of hydrogen technologies and infrastructure.”

Christopher Boyle, Fabrum’s Executive Chair, added, “Having liquid hydrogen as an aviation fuel available on-site is vital for the aviation sector, rapidly advancing towards hydrogen-fuelled operations to unlock a zero-emissions future.”

Fabrum received co-funding support for the hydrogen test site through an Arohia Trailblazer Innovation Grant from Callaghan Innovation.

Furthermore, both Fabrum and Christchurch Airport are involved in a hydrogen consortium with Fortescue Future Industries (FFI), Air New Zealand, Hiringa Energy and Airbus.

Yesterday (February 10), Airbus announced it will delay plans to develop hydrogen-powered aircraft by 2035 due to slow-than-expected technological advancements and infrastructure struggles.

Read more: Airbus hits pause on hydrogen aircraft, citing tech and infrastructure hurdles