Hydrogen has long been hailed as one of the most promising pathways towards climate-neutral aviation, yet hydrogen-powered aircraft remain far from everyday reality. In this session, Dr. Francesca De Domenico, Assistant Professor in Sustainable Aircraft Propulsion at TU Delft, explores why this is the case.
Drawing on her research in hydrogen and multi-fuel combustion systems in collaboration with the aerospace industry, she examines the challenges that extend well beyond the engine itself. The discussion considers the technological, economic, regulatory and infrastructural barriers that continue to limit the adoption of hydrogen-powered aircraft. Why has large-scale adoption not yet materialised? What scientific and engineering hurdles remain? And what must happen to make hydrogen aviation commercially viable?
The session presents hydrogen aviation as a systems challenge. Topics include propulsion and combustion technologies, aircraft integration, safety and certification, airport infrastructure, the availability of green hydrogen, and the broader economic conditions required for deployment at scale.
Finally, the session reflects on the broader lessons that aviation's hydrogen journey offers other sectors. Developing hydrogen-powered flight has required balancing scientific innovation, safety, regulation and economic viability, providing valuable insights into how complex hydrogen technologies can be translated from laboratory research to industrial implementation and, ultimately, to society.