Sustainable Aviation
Hydrogen-Powered Aviation: A New Era for Light Aircraft
The aviation industry is undergoing a transformative shift as it seeks sustainable alternatives to traditional fossil fuels. Among the most promising solutions is hydrogen, a clean energy source that produces only water when burned. The recent success of the BeautHyFuel project, which tested a liquid hydrogen-fuelled gas turbine engine for light aircraft, marks a significant milestone in this journey. This breakthrough not only demonstrates the feasibility of hydrogen propulsion but also highlights the collaborative efforts of industry leaders like Turbotech, Safran, and Air Liquide.
Hydrogen has long been recognized for its potential in aviation, dating back to the 1930s when the first hydrogen-powered aircraft, the Heinkel He 178, took flight. However, challenges related to storage, handling, and infrastructure have delayed its widespread adoption. The BeautHyFuel project addresses these hurdles by integrating advanced cryogenic storage systems and demonstrating the compatibility of hydrogen propulsion with light aircraft. This achievement paves the way for a future where aviation is both efficient and environmentally friendly.
As global efforts to combat climate change intensify, the aviation sector is under increasing pressure to reduce its carbon footprint. Hydrogen-powered engines offer a viable solution, particularly for light aircraft, which are often used for training, tourism, and short-haul flights. The success of the BeautHyFuel project not only validates the technology but also sets the stage for broader adoption across the industry.
The BeautHyFuel project is a collaborative initiative involving Turbotech, Safran, Air Liquide, Elixir Aircraft, and Daher, with support from the French Civil Aviation Authority (DGAC). The project’s primary goal is to develop and certify a hydrogen propulsion system for light aircraft. The recent ground tests, conducted at Air Liquide’s Grenoble Technologies Campus, successfully demonstrated the operation of a 141hp (105kW) TP-R90 regenerative turbine engine fueled by liquid hydrogen.
These tests accumulated 23 hours of run time under varying external temperatures, ranging from -5°C to 35°C. This achievement builds on earlier tests conducted in January 2024, which used gaseous hydrogen to characterize the engine. The integration of a cryogenic storage system developed by Air Liquide was a critical component of the recent tests, showcasing the end-to-end functionality of the propulsion system.
According to Damien Fauvet, CEO of Turbotech, “This is a major step forward in the transition to fully decarbonized aircraft propulsion, which will be ready to fly as soon as the world mass-produces green hydrogen.” The project’s success underscores the importance of collaboration between aerospace majors and SMEs in driving innovation and achieving rapid progress.
“By coupling our technology to Air Liquide’s cryogenic storage system, we’ve demonstrated that a complete high-tech propulsion solution with zero carbon emissions in flight is possible and that it can be directly integrated into light aircraft.” – Pierre-Alain Lambert, VP of Hydrogen Programs at Safran
Hydrogen offers several advantages over traditional aviation fuels like kerosene and Avgas. Its energy density is significantly higher, with approximately 33.3 kWh/kg compared to 12.0 kWh/kg for kerosene. When burned, hydrogen produces only water as a quantifiable emission, making it an environmentally friendly alternative. However, high-temperature combustion can result in the production of nitrogen oxides (NOx), which must be managed to ensure complete sustainability.
One of the primary challenges associated with hydrogen is its storage and handling. Liquid hydrogen must be stored at or below -253°C, requiring advanced cryogenic systems. Air Liquide’s expertise in this area has been instrumental in overcoming these challenges, enabling the successful integration of hydrogen propulsion systems in light aircraft. The company’s cryogenic storage technology provides the energy density needed for aviation applications, ensuring efficient and safe operation. As the industry moves toward greener technologies, hydrogen is emerging as a key player in the energy transition. The BeautHyFuel project aligns with global efforts to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainable aviation. With green hydrogen production expected to scale up in the coming years, the widespread adoption of hydrogen-powered aircraft could become a reality sooner than anticipated.
The success of the BeautHyFuel project has far-reaching implications for the aviation industry. It not only validates the feasibility of hydrogen propulsion but also sets a precedent for future innovation. The project partners are now looking ahead to flight tests, which will further demonstrate the capabilities of hydrogen-powered engines. These tests will be critical in gaining regulatory approval and building confidence among stakeholders.
Hydrogen-powered aviation is part of a broader trend toward decarbonization in the aerospace sector. As governments and organizations worldwide commit to reducing carbon emissions, the demand for sustainable aviation solutions is expected to grow. Hydrogen, with its high energy density and zero-carbon emissions, is well-positioned to play a central role in this transition.
Xavier Traversac, VP of Air Liquide Advanced Technologies, emphasizes the importance of hydrogen in the energy transition, stating, “Hydrogen is one of the key elements in the energy transition – and this success is another step toward low-carbon flying.” The BeautHyFuel project serves as a testament to the potential of hydrogen in revolutionizing aviation and contributing to a more sustainable future.
The BeautHyFuel project represents a significant milestone in the pursuit of sustainable aviation. By successfully ground testing a liquid hydrogen-fuelled gas turbine engine for light aircraft, the project demonstrates the feasibility and potential of hydrogen propulsion. This achievement is the result of a collaborative effort between industry leaders, highlighting the importance of partnership in driving innovation.
As the aviation industry continues to explore sustainable alternatives to traditional fuels, hydrogen is emerging as a promising solution. The success of the BeautHyFuel project not only validates the technology but also sets the stage for broader adoption across the sector. With future flight tests on the horizon, the dream of zero-carbon aviation is closer than ever to becoming a reality.
Question: What is the BeautHyFuel project? Question: What are the benefits of hydrogen as an aviation fuel? Question: What are the challenges of using hydrogen in aviation? Sources: FlightGlobal, New Atlas, Aerospace Testing International
The Rise of Hydrogen-Powered Aviation: A New Era for Light Aircraft
The BeautHyFuel Project: A Collaborative Breakthrough
Hydrogen as a Sustainable Aviation Fuel
Future Implications and Industry Trends
Conclusion
FAQ
Answer: The BeautHyFuel project is a collaborative initiative aimed at developing and certifying a hydrogen propulsion system for light aircraft. It involves industry leaders like Turbotech, Safran, and Air Liquide.
Answer: Hydrogen offers higher energy density compared to traditional fuels and produces only water as a quantifiable emission, making it an environmentally friendly alternative.
Answer: The primary challenges include the storage and handling of liquid hydrogen, which requires advanced cryogenic systems to maintain temperatures below -253°C.
Sustainable Aviation
SkyNRG Closes Financing for Europe’s First Standalone SAF Plant
SkyNRG reaches financial close for DSL-01, Europe’s first standalone SAF plant in the Netherlands, targeting full operations by mid-2028.
This article is based on an official press release from SkyNRG and accompanying project documentation.
SkyNRG has officially reached financial close for DSL-01, its first dedicated commercial-scale Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) production facility. Located in Delfzijl, Netherlands, the project marks a significant milestone in the European aviation sector’s transition to renewable energy. According to the company’s announcement, construction on the facility has already commenced, with full operations targeted for mid-2028.
The DSL-01 project is distinguished as Europe’s first standalone greenfield SAF plant, meaning it is being built from the ground up rather than as an expansion of an existing fossil fuel refinery. Once operational, the facility is projected to produce 100,000 tonnes of SAF annually, alongside 35,000 tonnes of by-products including bio-propane and naphtha.
Maarten van Dijk, CEO and Co-Founder of SkyNRG, emphasized the strategic importance of this development in a statement regarding the launch:
“Reaching this important milestone… marks an important step in our transition to becoming an owner and operator of SAF production capacity. This milestone demonstrates growing market confidence in scalable SAF production and provides a model for future sustainable fuel projects globally.” The facility will utilize Topsoe’s HydroFlex™ technology, operating on the Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids (HEFA) pathway. SkyNRG has stated that the plant will process waste oils and fats,predominantly sourced from regional industries,and will explicitly exclude virgin vegetable oils such as palm or soy to avoid competition with food supplies. The project aims to deliver a lifecycle CO2 emissions reduction of more than 85% compared to fossil jet fuel.
Technip Energies has been awarded the Engineering, Procurement, and Construction (EPC) contract for the site. While specific contract values are often confidential, industry reports estimate the value between €500 million and €1 billion. The construction phase is expected to generate hundreds of jobs in the Groningen Seaports region, contributing to the area’s developing green industrial cluster.
A critical aspect of the DSL-01 project is its financial structure. It is the first commercial-scale SAF plant to secure non-recourse project financing, a move that signals increasing maturity in the SAF market. Under this structure, lenders are repaid based on the project’s future cash flow rather than the general assets of the parent company.
The investment consortium includes: Arjan Reinders, Head of Infrastructure Europe at APG, noted the alignment of this investment with broader sustainability goals:
“SkyNRG represents the first investment in the SAF sector on behalf of our client [ABP], which is closely aligned with our ambition to create impact by investing at the forefront in energy transition assets.” To ensure the commercial viability of the plant, SkyNRG has secured long-term offtake agreements. KLM Royal Dutch Airlines has committed to purchasing 75,000 tonnes of SAF annually for a period of 10 years. This volume represents three-quarters of the plant’s total SAF output and is essential for KLM to meet upcoming EU mandates under the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation.
Additionally, SHV Energy has agreed to purchase the bioLPG (bio-propane) by-products produced by the facility. Shell, a strategic partner of SkyNRG since 2019, retains an option to purchase SAF from the plant and continues to provide technical and commercial expertise.
The successful financial close of DSL-01 represents a pivotal moment for the SAF industry, specifically regarding “bankability.” Historically, SAF projects have struggled to attract traditional project finance due to perceived technology and market risks. The willingness of a major banking syndicate to provide non-recourse debt suggests that financial institutions now view HEFA-based SAF production as a stable asset class.
Furthermore, the timing of this project aligns directly with the European Union’s “Fit for 55” regulatory package. With the ReFuelEU Aviation Regulation mandating a 2% SAF blend by 2025 and rising to 6% by 2030, the DSL-01 facility will come online just as demand pressures intensify. Unlike competitors expanding existing refineries, SkyNRG’s success with a standalone greenfield site provides a “proof of concept” that could accelerate the development of similar independent facilities globally, such as their planned projects in the United States and Sweden.
Sources:
SkyNRG Reaches Financial Close on Europe’s First Standalone Greenfield SAF Plant
Project Specifications and Technology
Financial Structure and Investment Partners
Strategic Partnerships and Offtake Agreements
AirPro News Analysis
Photo Credit: SkyNRG
Sustainable Aviation
Asia-Pacific Aviation Growth and Sustainable Aviation Fuel Initiatives 2026
Asia-Pacific aviation growth faces decarbonization challenges with new SAF mandates and Airbus’s just transition strategy at Singapore Airshow 2026.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and additional industry reporting regarding the Singapore Airshow 2026.
As the aviation industry gathers for the Singapore Airshow 2026, the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region stands as the focal point of global aerospace growth. According to recent industry forecasts, APAC is projected to account for over 50% of global aviation growth between 2025 and 2026. However, this rapid expansion presents a critical challenge: reconciling a forecast 7.3% increase in passenger traffic with urgent decarbonization goals.
In a press release issued on February 2, 2026, Airbus outlined a strategy focused on a “just transition.” The European manufacturer argues that the adoption of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) in Asia-Pacific offers more than just environmental compliance; it presents a pathway for regional socioeconomic development and energy sovereignty.
While the primary driver for SAF adoption globally has been carbon reduction, Airbus emphasizes that for the APAC region, the benefits are deeply tied to local economic resilience. The region possesses abundant feedstock potential, including agricultural residues, used cooking oil, and palm oil waste.
According to the Airbus announcement, utilizing agricultural waste for fuel production addresses multiple local issues simultaneously. In many parts of Asia, the burning of agricultural fields contributes significantly to seasonal air pollution. By converting this biomass into SAF, the region can reduce local smog while creating new revenue streams for rural communities.
Airbus describes this approach as a “just transition,” ensuring that the shift to green energy supports developing economies rather than hindering them. The manufacturer notes that developing local production capabilities also boosts “regional energy sovereignty,” reducing the reliance on imported fossil fuels.
“Given the broad socioeconomic diversity… Asia-Pacific is a prime place to demonstrate the possibilities for a just transition. Leveraging co-benefits could open opportunities to build community resilience.”
, Airbus Press Release, February 2, 2026
Beyond manufacturer initiatives, government policy in the region is hardening. Data released in conjunction with the Singapore Airshow highlights a wave of new mandates and targets aimed at accelerating SAF uptake. Most notably, Singapore has confirmed the introduction of a SAF levy for all flights departing from Changi Airport starting October 1, 2026. This levy is designed to fund a national 1% SAF target by the end of the year, with plans to scale to 3-5% by 2030.
Other regional developments include:
The push for decarbonization is also visible on the tarmac. During the Singapore Airshow, an Airbus A350-1000 is performing flying displays powered by a 35% SAF blend. The fuel, supplied by Shell Aviation, was produced via the HEFA-SPK pathway using used cooking oil and tallow.
In a significant move for propulsion technology, Airbus, CFM International, and the Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore (CAAS) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on February 2. This agreement establishes Singapore as the world’s first airport testbed for the “RISE” (Revolutionary Innovation for Sustainable Engines) program. The initiative aims to test “Open Fan” engine architecture, which targets a 20% improvement in fuel efficiency.
Additionally, Airbus and Cathay Group have reiterated their commitment to a US$70 million joint investment, originally announced in late 2025, to accelerate SAF production projects with commercial viability in the region.
While the regulatory and technological momentum is palpable, a stark reality remains. Industry data indicates that global SAF output reached only 1.9 million tonnes in 2025, representing a mere 0.6% of total jet fuel demand. With APAC passenger traffic expected to grow by 7.3% in 2026, the gap between demand for travel and the supply of green fuel is widening.
The “green premium”, where SAF costs 2x to 4x more than conventional jet fuel, remains the primary hurdle. While the “just transition” narrative provided by Airbus offers a compelling long-term vision for feedstock utilization, the immediate success of these initiatives will depend heavily on whether the new levies and investments can bridge the price gap quickly enough to meet the 2027-2030 mandates.
What is the “Just Transition” in aviation? When does the Singapore SAF levy begin? What is the current global supply of SAF? Sources:
Asia-Pacific Aviation at a Crossroads: Balancing Growth with a “Just Transition”
The Socioeconomic Case for SAF
Turning Waste into Wealth
Regulatory Momentum and National Mandates
Technological Milestones at Singapore Airshow 2026
New Partnerships
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
In this context, it refers to decarbonizing aviation in a way that provides economic benefits to developing nations, such as creating jobs in rural areas by using agricultural waste for fuel production.
The levy applies to all flights departing Singapore starting October 1, 2026.
As of 2025, SAF production accounted for approximately 0.6% of total global jet fuel usage.
Airbus,
IATA,
Civil Aviation Authority of Singapore
Photo Credit: Airbus
Sustainable Aviation
FedEx Expands Sustainable Aviation Fuel Program to DFW and JFK Airports
FedEx expands sustainable aviation fuel use to Dallas-Fort Worth and JFK airports, supporting its carbon-neutral goals with 5 million gallons secured for 2025.
This article is based on an official press release from FedEx.
FedEx has officially expanded its SAF program to include Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK). The logistics giant announced the move on January 29, 2026, marking a significant step in its “Priority Earth” sustainability roadmap. With these additions, FedEx now utilizes SAF at five airports across the United States.
According to the company’s announcement, the expansion is supported by World Fuel Services (WFS), which manages the supply chain and delivery of the fuel. The initiative positions FedEx as the first airline, cargo or passenger, to purchase SAF for regular commercial operations at DFW, a major global logistics hub.
The agreement covers the purchase of approximately 2 million gallons of “neat” (unblended) SAF for these two locations. When combined with agreements for other hubs, FedEx has secured a total of 5 million gallons of neat SAF for delivery throughout 2025.
While the purchasing agreements are calculated in gallons of “neat” SAF, the fuel actually delivered to aircraft is a blend. Safety regulations currently prohibit the use of 100% SAF in commercial aircraft engines. Consequently, the fuel supplied to FedEx at DFW and JFK is a mixture containing a minimum of 30% neat SAF blended with conventional Jet A fuel.
World Fuel Services facilitates this supply, typically sourcing the renewable component from Valero’s Diamond Green Diesel (DGD) joint venture. The SAF is produced via the HEFA (Hydroprocessed Esters and Fatty Acids) pathway, utilizing waste-based feedstocks such as used cooking oil, animal tallow, and distiller’s corn oil. This production method allows for a lifecycle greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reduction of up to 80% compared to standard petroleum-based jet fuel.
In a statement regarding the logistical achievement, Bradley Hurwitz, Senior Vice President of Supply & Trading at World Fuel Services, noted:
“FedEx’s purchase at DFW and JFK demonstrates how our aviation fuel distribution platform enables carriers to access lower-carbon fuel options with a robust supply chain designed for flexibility and scale.”
This expansion is part of FedEx’s broader strategy to achieve carbon-neutral global operations by 2040. The company has set an interim target to source 30% of its total jet fuel from alternative fuels by 2030. The addition of DFW and JFK complements existing SAF programs at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), and Miami International Airport (MIA). Karen Blanks Ellis, Chief Sustainability Officer at FedEx, emphasized the progress made over the last year:
“Expanding SAF use by FedEx to include our operations at DFW and JFK caps off a successful year of SAF deployments coast-to-coast. While we know there remains work ahead to procure more SAF… we are proud of our steps forward.”
The introduction of SAF at Dallas-Fort Worth is particularly notable. While pilot programs have existed at DFW since 2021, they were largely limited to business aviation. FedEx’s commitment marks the first regular commercial adoption at the airport, signaling a shift from experimental to operational use in the cargo sector.
However, the industry faces significant headwinds. SAF currently trades at a premium of two to five times the price of conventional jet fuel. Furthermore, global production remains less than 1% of total jet fuel demand. While the “book and claim” system and government incentives like the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act help bridge the cost gap, the physical availability of SAF remains the primary bottleneck for large-scale adoption.
By securing 5 million gallons of neat SAF for 2025, FedEx is signaling consistent demand to producers, which is essential for stimulating the investment required to increase production capacity.
Airport officials have welcomed the move as a validation of existing infrastructure capabilities. Because the blended fuel is a “drop-in” solution, it requires no modifications to airport storage tanks or hydration systems.
Robert Horton, Vice President of Environmental Affairs at DFW Airport, stated:
“FedEx’s SAF purchase reflects how airlines, airports, and fuel providers work together within existing airport infrastructure to support the development of more sustainable aviation operations.”
“Neat” SAF refers to the pure, unblended sustainable fuel. It is not used in aircraft in this form due to safety regulations. Instead, it is blended with conventional jet fuel before delivery. Purchasing agreements often cite “neat” volumes to track the exact amount of renewable content purchased.
As of early 2026, FedEx utilizes SAF at five U.S. airports: Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW), John F. Kennedy (JFK), Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago O’Hare (ORD), and Miami (MIA). The specific SAF used in this agreement, produced via the HEFA pathway, can reduce lifecycle greenhouse gas emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel.
FedEx Expands Sustainable Aviation Fuel Program to DFW and JFK Airports
Operational Details and Supply Chain
Strategic Context: The “Priority Earth” Goal
AirPro News Analysis
Stakeholder Commentary
Frequently Asked Questions
What is “Neat” SAF?
Where does FedEx use SAF?
What is the emission benefit?
Sources
Photo Credit: FedEx
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