Emission Reduction Potential of Hydrogen-Powered Aviation between Airports in Proximity to Seaports

Abstract

Green hydrogen will play a crucial role in the future of emission reduction in air traffic in the long-term, as it will completely eliminate CO2 emissions and significantly reduce other pollutants such as contrails and nitrogen oxides. Hydrogen offers a promising alternative to kerosene for short- and medium-haul flights, particularly through direct combustion and hydrogen fuel cell technology in new aircraft concepts. Against the background of the immense capital-intensive infrastructure adjustments that are required at airports for this purpose and the simultaneously high future hydrogen demand for the shipping industry, this paper analyses the emission savings potential in Europe if airports near seaports would switch to hydrogen-powered flight connections.