In a groundbreaking achievement for the aviation industry, Turbotech, Safran, and Air Liquide have successfully tested the world’s first turbine engine powered by liquid hydrogen. This milestone marks a significant step toward sustainable and decarbonized aviation.
The collaboration builds on earlier efforts by Safran and Turbotech, who, nearly a year ago, tested a small TP-R90 turboprop engine using hydrogen gas. That test was part of the BeautHyFuel project, an initiative involving multiple aviation companies exploring hydrogen’s potential for light aircraft.
On January 13, 2025, with support from the French Civil Aviation Authority, the team achieved another breakthrough. They successfully ground-tested a turbine engine fueled by liquid hydrogen, a first for engines designed for the light aviation market.
Each company brought unique expertise to the project. Turbotech contributed its advanced lightweight turbine technology, Safran provided its knowledge of propulsion systems and fuel design, and Air Liquide offered its expertise in cryogenic hydrogen storage and handling.
Damien Fauvet, CEO of Turbotech, highlighted the significance of the achievement. “This is a major step forward in the transition to fully decarbonized aircraft propulsion,” he said. “It will be ready to fly as soon as the world mass-produces green hydrogen.”
Pierre-Alain Lambert, VP of Hydrogen Programs at Safran, added, “By combining our technology with Air Liquide’s cryogenic storage system, we’ve shown that a complete, high-tech propulsion solution with zero carbon emissions in flight is possible. This solution can be directly integrated into light aircraft.”
The successful test demonstrates the feasibility of liquid hydrogen as a sustainable fuel for aviation, paving the way for greener air travel in the future.
