Six prominent entities in the Spanish aviation sector have signed an agreement to explore the establishment of the country’s first hydrogen airport hub. This collaboration involves Airbus, airport operator Aena, airlines Air Nostrum and Iberia, Spanish fuel distributor Exolum, and energy giant Repsol. Their collective effort aims to tackle the key challenges associated with deploying hydrogen-powered aviation in Spain, ultimately supporting the growth of this innovative ecosystem within the sector.
The partnership will provide a comprehensive understanding of hydrogen-powered aircraft and their integration into the airport environment. This will not only address hydrogen supply and infrastructure but also consider the specific needs of ground operations at airports. Javier Arnaldo, Airbus’ Director of Sustainability in Spain, emphasised the necessity of industry-wide collaboration to ensure the future supply of hydrogen at airports, given Spain’s significant potential in renewable energy and low-carbon hydrogen production.
Ana Salazar, Aena’s Director of Sustainability, highlighted that this collaboration will enhance understanding of how the hydrogen supply process to Spanish airports could unfold in the future. It aims to establish a roadmap to tackle the main challenges. Teresa Parejo from Iberia noted that hydrogen is anticipated to play a crucial role in the future of aviation, complementing the development of sustainable fuels. She stressed the importance of taking initial steps now to realise this future vision.
This agreement represents a significant step towards advancing hydrogen-powered aviation in Spain, with key industry players working together to overcome challenges and pave the way for a sustainable future in aviation.
Avation PLC (LON:AVAP) is a commercial passenger aircraft leasing company owning a fleet of aircraft which it leases to airlines across the world. Avation’s future focus are new technology low CO2 emission aircraft.
