Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Airbus, Delta Air Lines and Plug Power are conducting a study on the feasibility of providing hydrogen fuel at the world’s busiest airport.
This undertaking will explore airport infrastructure and operational requirements to help advance a more sustainable future for air travel.
The partners aim to define the infrastructure, operational viability, and safety and security requirements to implement hydrogen as a potential fuel source at ATL. This will also help develop a greater understanding of supply and infrastructure requirements for hydrogen hubs at major airports globally.
The study is scheduled for completion at the end of 2026.
ATL Senior Deputy General Manager Michael Smith said:Hartsfield-Jackson has long been a leader in the commercial aviation industry, and it only makes sense that we help lead this effort. If hydrogen proves to be a viable alternative, ATL will investigate options to update infrastructure needs in order to implement the new technology. We are thrilled to participate in this study and look forward to the results.
The use of hydrogen to power aircraft could eliminate carbon emissions and help decarbonise the industry.
To progress the realisation of this future, Airbus’ Hydrogen Hub at Airports programme aims to jumpstart research into infrastructure and operational requirements across the entire value chain.
To date, agreements have been signed with partners and airports in thirteen countries including Canada, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, New Zealand, Norway, Sweden, Singapore, South Korea, Sweden, the UK and the US.
Karine Guénan, Airbus’ Vice President ZEROe Ecosystem said:The US has easy and massive access to additional renewable energies to produce green hydrogen, and airports are looking for a diverse and balanced energy mix to be more resilient and help reduce the impact of aviation on the environment. Hydrogen is a key enabler for this. The journey to prepare airport infrastructure to support hydrogen and low carbon aviation begins on the ground with pre-feasibility studies like this one, working with pioneer players like Delta, Plug and the world’s busiest airport.
