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What are the prospects for fuel cells?

On its way to developing greener aircraft and significantly reducing emissions, Airbus is developing fuel cell technology as an alternative energy source for on-ground and in-flight electrical power supply.

In June 2011, Airbus extended the scope of its fuel cell R&T activities by partnering with Parker Aerospace. Within this partnership Airbus will be responsible for the overall aircraft system architecture and technology integration into the aircraft, and Parker will supply the multifunctional fuel cell system and manage different subsystem suppliers.

The objective of the cooperation is the development of a technology demonstrator followed by a joint flight test campaign for the middle of the decade, including operational and infrastructural tests. With Parker Aerospace involved in the project from this earliest phase, industrialisation can be considered throughout the development of the process, rather than at the end.

In July 2011, Airbus performed research tests with the German Aerospace Centre (DLR) on autonomous taxiing using fuel cell. A DLR designed technology demonstrator was installed in the DLR owned A320 fuel cell test aircraft at the Airbus site in Hamburg. The technology demonstrator consists of a fuel cell powering an electric motor which drives the nose landing gear wheels allowing the aircraft to taxi autonomously.

 

What are the prospects for bio-fuels?

For second generation Biofuels, which do not compete with food, Airbus conducts sustainability studies while acting as a catalyst and develops Value Chain Projects all over the world connecting local farmers, refiners and airlines.

Is aviation the biggest contributor to CO2 emissions?

It is widely accepted by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change that aviation accounts for around 2 per cent of CO2 emissions, which may rise to 3 per cent by 2050. 

In comparison, road transport contributes 18 per cent of all CO2 emissions, with industry accounting for 23 per cent and power generation at 35 per cent.

How much does Airbus invest to improve its environmental performance?

Airbus invests up to 500 million euros annually, while 80 per cent of its research & development contributes directly to eco-efficiency.

What is a life-cycle approach?

Life-cycle approach is the analysis of a product’s environmental impacts at each step – from raw material procurement through manufacturing, operation and end-of-life – in order to control and reduce these impacts in the most efficient and appropriate way.

How will Airbus’ environmental targets be achieved?

Innovation and technology are key elements to Airbus’ efforts, as well as cross-sector and cross-industry collaboration. Airbus also believes it will achieve its environmental targets by implementing a life-cycle approach and eco-efficiency methodology to all operations – environmental considerations are central to Airbus processes and products.

What does “eco-efficient” mean?

For Airbus, eco-efficient means creating value with less environmental impact – in other words, doing more with less.

Airbus continually seeks and implements ways to produce more aircraft while using fewer resources and producing less waste. The company consistently monitors and minimises the environmental impact of its production processes and aircraft throughout their lifecycle – from design and production phases, through their full operational lifetimes, to eventual dismantling and recycling after retirement from service.

Where does Airbus stand on the environment?

Airbus aims to bring the most modern and efficient solutions to the market. The company constantly strives to develop new technologies and services, which improve efficiencies and reduce the industry’s environmental impact. Innovation is at the heart of everything Airbus does.