Exploratory Simulation of Truck-Based Hydrogen Aircraft Refuelling Logistics at an Airport
Case Study at Rotterdam The Hague Airport
G.R. Janssen (TU Delft - Aerospace Engineering)
O.A. Sharpans'kykh – Mentor (TU Delft - Operations & Environment)
Paul Roling – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Operations & Environment)
Erik-Jan van Kampen – Graduation committee member (TU Delft - Control & Simulation)
Jan-Daan Maasland – Graduation committee member
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Abstract
Green hydrogen is emerging as a viable alternative to kerosene for medium-range aviation, with airports playing a critical role in the distribution of liquid hydrogen (LH2). This study uses a simulation-based optimisation model to investigate hydrogen refuelling operations at Rotterdam The Hague Airport. Different analyses reveal that on-time performance and capacity are strongly influenced by hydrogen-flight penetration rate, refuelling-truck fleet size, and turnaround times. Operational efficiency depends on maintaining adequate fleet sizing and minimising LH2 refuelling durations, while factors like truck speed and trailer swap time have limited impact in compact airport layouts. Moderate integration by 2040 requires gradual investment, but high penetration by 2050 demands substantial infrastructure and vehicle expansion. As hydrogen usage grows, a second refuelling truck becomes necessary between 22% to 39% penetration, depending on the specific day and required refuelling time. Also, end-of-day and multiple close LH2 departures risk exceeding allowable departure time slots. Safety zone constraints and trailer capacity trade-offs further highlight the need for coordinated planning. These results underline that a successful transition to hydrogen aviation hinges on strategic fleet sizing, optimised processes, and phased infrastructure upgrades to ensure reliable and sustainable airport operations.