Analysis of the airport infrastructure for the implementation of sustainable aviation fuels in civil aviation

Abstract

This research aims to identify future airport infrastructure measures necessary to operate alternative aircraft concepts. So that the necessary adjustments can be incorporated into the planning of the airport infrastructure at an early stage. This paper using future and scenario analysis as methods to make an evaluation based on selected criteria. A comparison with currently available technologies and electric charging or hydrogen transfer is an important part of research to give a framework for the future infrastructure planning. It is expected that even with a moderate future growth of new technologies (e.g. hydrogen), considerable demands will have to be made on the infrastructure in general and on the infrastructure of the airport in particular to reach the goals for implementing future aircrafts with new propulsion systems. This research focuses on studying the airport infrastructure needed for the implementation of future aircraft with new propulsion systems. Civil aircraft are currently almost completely fueled with kerosene at airports. The supply of electricity or energy carriers such as hydrogen can pose major challenges, as these systems are not yet implemented in the aviation industry. Therefore, the analysis of infrastructure needs related to alternative aircraft concepts is of great importance.