Early stage concepts for an on-site hydrogen production aircraft refuelling facility with potential for multi-modal applications are currently developed by the two parties, with an area of land with access to the BHX airfield and local road network already having been earmarked for the site.
The players say on-site solar power is being considered as a source of renewable energy to produce the hydrogen, which in future could support early hydrogen-powered flight demonstrations as well as refuel road vehicles.
BHX has said it has commenced talks with a “major automotive company” about trialling hydrogen buses and cars on the airfield.
The development comes after the two entered into a long-term partnership to develop on-airfield hydrogen refuelling and regular domestic flights of zero-emission aircraft in February (2023).
Read more: ZeroAvia and Birmingham Airport enter partnership for hydrogen-powered flight
ZeroAvia has said its own analysis suggests a 3MW hydrogen production facility could produce 365 tonnes of hydrogen annually, which could support 1,250 regional flights and 3,000 buses or trucks per annum, with the remaining 250kg per day being used for industrial applications.
“Our ambition is bold but attainable,” said Arnab Chatterjee, Vice-President Infrastructure at ZeroAvia. “We have proven the concept of hydrogen-powered flights and are on a clear pathway to commercial adoption. Technologies are advancing fast as we progress with expanding to larger aircraft over long distances.”
Chatterjee added, “Before the end of this decade, we believe hydrogen as a fuel source for vehicles and aircraft will be an accepted norm.”
Simon Richards, Chief Finance and Sustainability Officer for BHX, said although the development is in its early stages, it could be “game-changing.”
“While we are still at a very early stage, it is important to communicate this vision so people can see what is coming and the benefits to the wider community,” Richards said. “This is a game-changing prospect underpinned by a steely determination to decarbonise and protect the future of our planet for future generations.”
Having visited the potential BHX hydrogen production site, Andy Street, Mayor of the West Midlands, said, “There is the seed of an idea here – with the ambition and creativity of the ZeroAvia team working with Birmingham Airport clear to see… I look forward to this initiative bearing fruit in the months and years ahead.”
Having recorded its first flight powered by a hydrogen-electric engine in January (2023), ZeroAvia has plans to certify its ZA600 powertrain system for 20-seat aircraft by 2025.
Read more: ZeroAvia records first flight powered by hydrogen-electric engine
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