Technological Advances and Future Prospects

Singapore’s Leap into Hydrogen Fuel Technology The potential of liquid hydrogen as a power source for aircraft is a beacon of hope for the future of aviation. Although the technology is still in development and earmarked for future generations of commercial aircraft, Singapore is positioning itself at the forefront of this innovation. The committee’s proactive approach in conducting early technical feasibility studies ensures that the city-state remains ready to integrate liquid hydrogen into its decarbonisation strategy as soon as the technology matures.

Sabine Klauke, Airbus’s Chief Technology Officer, emphasized the growing interest and investment in hydrogen within the Asia-Pacific region. Acknowledging hydrogen as a pivotal element in the broader spectrum of decarbonisation strategies, she highlighted its potential to complement sustainable aviation fuel, aligning with the global transition towards net-zero emissions by 2050.

Infrastructure Development and Consumption Projections

Singapore’s Leap into Hydrogen Fuel Technology The committee’s work has led to the identification of infrastructure scenarios capable of supporting the progressive deployment of liquid hydrogen at Changi Airport. Projections suggest that Singapore’s aviation sector could require up to 50 tonnes of liquid hydrogen daily by the 2040s, escalating to 600 tonnes per day post-2050. These estimates are based on the anticipated operation of hydrogen-powered aircraft, designed to carry 100 to 200 passengers over distances ranging from 1000 to 2000 nautical miles, with service commencement targeted between 2035 and 2040.

The potential for hydrogen-powered flights to connect Changi Airport with approximately 74 airports across 20 Asia-Pacific countries and territories opens new horizons. However, the realization of these connections will depend on several factors, including the hydrogen readiness levels at destination airports and various commercial considerations by airlines.

Regulatory, Operational, and Economic Considerations

Singapore’s Leap into Hydrogen Fuel Technology The integration of hydrogen technology into aviation is a multifaceted challenge, encompassing operational, safety, regulatory, and economic dimensions. Ms Poh Li San, Senior Vice President at Changi Airport Group, noted the nascent stage of hydrogen technology and the industry’s concerted efforts to address these complexities. Adopting a phased approach allows for a more manageable transition, ensuring that air hubs are adequately prepared to support hydrogen-fueled aircraft.

 Singapore’s Leap into Hydrogen Fuel Technology John Panikar, EVP and CEO APAC at Linde, underscored hydrogen’s dual role in reducing both in-air emissions and ground activities’ carbon footprint. With over a century of experience in the hydrogen sector, Linde is poised to leverage its extensive capabilities to advance hydrogen’s promise in aviation.

• Technology: Monitoring the maturity of hydrogen aircraft technology, including Airbus’ ZEROe aircraft demonstrator launch in 2027.
• Concept of Operations (CONOPs): Developing logistics, storage, onsite distribution, and refuelling strategies for liquid hydrogen in airport environments.
• Regulations: Establishing safety regulatory frameworks and standards for liquid hydrogen aircraft operations.
• Hydrogen Supply Chain and Airport Infrastructure: Creating a commercial-scale liquid hydrogen supply chain compatible with airport operations.
• Assessing the readiness of other airports for liquid hydrogen aircraft operations.
• Relative Price: Evaluating the cost-effectiveness of liquid hydrogen as an alternative aircraft fuel.