The Jet Zero Council has released a 2-year action plan that commits to accelerating the development of zero-direct-emission aircraft and installing the related infrastructure at UK airports.
The plan aims to increase the production and use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF), alongside exploring the development of liquid hydrogen propulsion technologies. This is part of the UK government’s stated goal of decarbonising the British aviation industry faster than any other G7 country.
To achieve these goals, the plan also sets out a timeline for ensuring airports are equipped with the necessary infrastructure. This includes:
- Engaging with industry to highlight airport infrastructure planning and investment considerations (from April to December 2023)
- Advising on investment opportunities for further R&D on airport readiness for zero-emission flight (between May and October 2023)
- Estimating potential aircraft and infrastructure hydrogen leakage and suggesting mitigations (October 2023 to April 2024)
- Informing the case for future convergence of an aerospace and airport infrastructure centre (from May to December 2024)
- Reviewing the impact of airport infrastructure R&D to recommend any further need (between August and December 2024)
The Jet Zero Council, which is made up of industry, academic and government personnel, met at Farnborough Airport on 17 April 2023 to deliver this 2-year plan as part of the sustainable skies summit.
