Photo credit: MTU Aero Engines
Airbus and the German engine manufacturer MTU Aero Engines have agreed to form a joint venture to design, test and commercialize a fully electric hydrogen fuel cell propulsion system for aircraft. The non-binding agreement, which is subject to regulatory approval, builds upon a previous cooperation roadmap established during the 2025 Paris Air Show.
By combining their resources into a singular, highly coordinated European entity, the partners aim to accelerate development timelines and bring a certifiable, zero-emission powertrain to the market. The joint venture is projected to officially begin operations in 2027.
The partnership leverages complementary expertise, blending Airbus’ history in aircraft manufacturing and liquid hydrogen systems with MTU Aero Engines’ experience in engine integration, testing, maintenance and certification.
Rather than burning fuel, the planned powertrain will rely on an electrochemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen to generate electricity, releasing only water vapor as a byproduct. This technology is a cornerstone of the long-term Airbus ZEROe initiative, which aims to pioneer climate-neutral flight. Along with engineering the propulsion system, both companies plan to work alongside regulators to help establish the safety frameworks and fueling infrastructure necessary to support hydrogen-powered flight at scale.
For decades, business aircraft manufacturers have pioneered propulsion systems that increase fuel efficiencies. That innovative work is also accelerating the introduction of new eco-friendly aircraft that use hybrid, electric and even hydrogen-powered propulsion.
