AIRBUS IS deploying a modified glider powered by hydrogen to study the impact of the alternative fuel on contrail formation. As part of its UpNext programme, the European airframer has conducted its first flight under the Blue Condor nametag, using hydrogen as the sole fuel source.
The Arcus-J glider made its inaugural hydrogen-powered flight over Nevada in the United States on November 8, 2023. The flight lasted 30 minutes and saw the pilot increase the hydrogen engine’s thrust at 7,000ft, achieving different speeds. Two more flights have taken place since to test engine performance at 10,000ft.
The Blue Condor team plans to operate an initial contrail-studying operation early next year, with the test campaign continuing in 2024. Airbus said that while hydrogen offers a path to lowcarbon operations, its combustion produces contrails just like conventional jet fuel. Hydrogen contrails do not contain soot or sulphur oxides, but do hold nitrous oxides and up to 2.5 times more water vapour than kerosene. “Both are considered climateimpacting emissions and, as such, the aviation industry has a duty to address them,” Airbus said.