Airbus, Houston Airports, and the Center for Houston’s Future (CHF) have signed a memorandum of understanding to study the feasibility of a hydrogen hub at George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH). This initiative is part of a comprehensive approach to decarbonize airport operations and prepare for the arrival of Airbus’ future hydrogen-powered aircraft expected by 2035.
A Step towards Decarbonizing Airport Infrastructure
Airports play a crucial role in the transition towards decarbonizing the entire value chain of the aviation industry. Airbus’ « Hydrogen Hub at Airports » concept brings key players in the airport ecosystem together to better understand the infrastructure needs for future hydrogen-powered aircraft and develop a progressive approach to decarbonize all airport-related infrastructure using hydrogen.
Feasibility Study Objectives
The study will focus on identifying opportunities and challenges related to hydrogen supply, infrastructure development, and hydrogen utilization at the airport. Specific areas of study will include aviation use, airport ground transportation, airport heating, and potentially supplying adjacent customers in the transportation and local industries sectors.
Contributions of the Partners
- Airbus: A pioneer in sustainable aerospace, Airbus continuously innovates to provide efficient and technologically advanced solutions in the aerospace sector. The company is currently developing the first commercial hydrogen-powered aircraft with the goal of entering service by 2035 and promotes the concept of H2 Hubs at airports.
- Houston Airports: Houston’s airport system forms one of the largest public airport systems in North America, positioning Houston as the international gateway for passengers and cargo to the South-Central US and Latin America. The city offers a dynamic air service network that enhances the economic vitality of the transportation industry.
- Center for Houston’s Future: The center leads a comprehensive effort to create a clean hydrogen ecosystem throughout the value chain in the Houston region and along the Gulf Coast. It was one of the founding organizers of the HyVelocity Hydrogen Hub, selected by the US Department of Energy as one of the seven national hydrogen hubs.
Importance of Collaboration for Hydrogen Infrastructure
Karine Guenan, Vice President of Airbus’ ZEROe ecosystem, emphasizes: “For hydrogen to reach its full potential, the entire airport ecosystem — including airport authorities, energy providers, and regulatory authorities — must come together and collaborate. This joint study will help us better understand the infrastructure needed at the Houston airport to support hydrogen and low-carbon aviation in the future. What we learn here can also enrich global knowledge.”
A Sustainable Future for Houston Airports
Jim Szczesniak, Director of Aviation for the City of Houston, states: “Houston’s airports are experiencing phenomenal growth, connecting our city to the world like never before. By participating in this sustainability study, we ensure that we continue to build a sustainable airport system, attracting top talent and businesses, and demonstrating our commitment to being a responsible global citizen.”
Towards Global Leadership in Sustainable Aviation Innovation
Brett Perlman, CEO of the Center for Houston’s Future, adds: “Houston, as the global energy capital, is the ideal place to develop our airports into North American pioneers of clean hydrogen.” This initiative highlights Houston’s central role in energy innovation and its ambition to lead the low-carbon energy sector.
The study in Houston is expected to conclude by the end of March 2025. It represents a key step in achieving the aviation industry’s decarbonization goals and could serve as a model for other airports worldwide.
This ambitious collaboration between Airbus, Houston Airports, and the Center for Houston’s Future could not only transform George Bush Intercontinental Airport into a pioneering hydrogen hub, but also pave the way for a more sustainable and environmentally friendly aviation industry.
