The Fraunhofer Institute for Material Flow and Logistics (IML) has conducted a study on the use of hydrogen at airports on behalf of the Federal Ministry of Transport (BMV). The analysis was published by NOW GmbH. The authors recommend modular concepts and regional cooperation as the basis for a financially viable ramp-up.
According to the study, a comprehensive short-term use of hydrogen in flight operations is not expected. The technology in aircraft is still under development. Initially, sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) are likely to play a central role in the decarbonisation of air transport. The Fraunhofer IML currently does not consider a large-scale development of infrastructure for liquid hydrogen beyond conceptual preparations to be sensible.
Potentials in ground operations
In the short to medium term, the study sees opportunities primarily in the use of gaseous hydrogen in ground operations. This includes vehicles and equipment for aircraft handling (Ground Support Equipment). Initial applications should be tested in defined pilot projects. Mobile and reversible infrastructure solutions could help limit investment risks.
However, these applications alone are not sufficient to ensure a financially viable hydrogen infrastructure at the airport. The study identifies the limited availability of series-ready vehicles and high investment and operating costs as central challenges.
Regional multi-use approaches as key
The authors see a significant lever in regional networking. Airports could potentially open their hydrogen infrastructure to external users – such as logistics and freight transport, public transport, or adjacent industrial and commercial sites. In such multi-use ecosystems, airports would assume the role of integrators, without necessarily being infrastructure operators themselves.
According to the study, the greatest obstacles lie less in technology and more in regulatory and economic issues. These include a lack of norms and standards, complex approval and liability issues, and uncertainties regarding demand and business models.
“Hydrogen will also play an important role in air transport – but with a realistic view of fields of application and time horizons,” emphasises Federal Minister of Transport Patrick Schnieder. Now it is important to set the right course: “With modular planning of infrastructures, selected applications, and close integration with regional partners.” The study and management summary are available online as a PDF for download.
