The UK aviation regulator has launched a new initiative to explore the potential of hydrogen as an alternative aviation fuel, entitled the Hydrogen Challenge, alongside the launch of a regulatory sandbox.
Acknowledging that ‘hydrogen as an aviation fuel is at an early stage of development,’ the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) said that it is keen to address issues of its adoption and integration in a sector it recognises ‘does not yet have a comprehensive understanding of the risks to aviation safety and the right pathway to certification’.
The upcoming Hydrogen Challenge, which is funded with nearly £940,000 from the Regulator’s Pioneer Fund (overseen by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology), will “explore how feasible the introduction of hydrogen is and how we can make sure regulation is fit for purpose,” noted Sophie O’Sullivan, head of future safety and innovation at the CAA.
The overarching challenge will encompass a number of concerns, facilitating collaboration with industry and academia to ‘improve understanding of hydrogen-related risks in aviation, identify gaps in policies, and propose new recommendations to develop net-zero policies,’ confirms the CAA. The Challenge will run until 28 February 2025.
Additionally, a new CAA regulatory sandbox – aimed at assisting applicants in running hydrogen trials and maximising regulatory readiness – will soon be open for applications.