How fast can an H\u2082 aircraft be refueled? How can fuel cell stacks be checked for defects during operation? And what technologies are needed for a multi-megawatt propulsion system? These questions were at the center of the ZAL Diskurs on February 20, 2025.<\/p>\n
The focus was on the HEROPS project (Hydrogen-Electric Zero Emission Propulsion System), which is developing technologies for a climate-neutral, hydrogen-powered electric propulsion system\u2014aiming to bring regional aircraft into the air by 2035. Dr. Stephan Lellek (MTU Aero Engines) compared alternative energy sources and propulsion systems, concluding that only hydrogen-electric is both emission-free and scalable.<\/p>\n
A solution for storing liquid hydrogen was presented by Dr.-Ing. Marko Vietze (MT Aerospace AG). While comparable systems often rely on cryopumps, his team developed a **passive system with heat exchangers**, regulating gas pressure without moving parts\u2014a key advantage for maintenance and reliability.<\/p>\n
Hydrogen will also fundamentally change aircraft maintenance. Dr. Lothar Kerschkens (Lufthansa Technik) outlined the new **MRO challenges** facing the industry: high-voltage systems that cannot be touched and the question of how **fuel cell stacks can be efficiently inspected** within short turnaround times.<\/p>\n
The extensive Q&A sessions after each presentation made one thing clear: there is great interest in emission-free aviation\u2014as well as many open questions about infrastructure, technology, and hydrogen supply.<\/p>\n