A Study on the Potential of Hydrogen Tankering in the Design and Operation of an Air Transport System with First-Generation Hydrogen-Powered Aircraft †
Sam Randeraad (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
Pieter Jan Proesmans (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
Alexei Sharpanskykh (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
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Abstract
Liquid hydrogen-powered aircraft (LH2 aircraft) offer the potential for a zero-carbon footprint when hydrogen is produced from renewable sources. However, integrating LH2 aircraft into the air transport system is complex due to differences in LH2 supply availability and varying levels of airport readiness. To address these disparities and comply with anticipated sustainability regulations, hydrogen tankering can serve as a temporary strategy by carrying additional hydrogen to avoid refueling at destinations lacking LH2 capabilities. This study presents a novel model that evaluates the potential of tankering while accounting for its interaction with strategic LH2 infrastructure placement, tactical flight scheduling, and operational aircraft routing. Applying the framework to a real-world case in the Baltic Sea region reveals trade-offs between system costs and environmental benefits under different regulatory measures.