First BSR HyAirport studies published: Feasibility of hydrogen use in airport operations

The BSRHyAirport partnership has released its first major study results, marking an important step towards preparing airports in the Baltic Sea Region for the integration of hydrogen technologies.

Two feasibility studies have now been published:

• Feasibility study on the general use of gaseous hydrogen in airport machinery
• Feasibility study on the use of gaseous hydrogen (GH₂) in airport terminal operations

The studies were supported by Greecon Consulting from Germany and Granlund from Finland and are the first parts for the common goal and aim of the project to prepare Airports for the integration of hydrogen.

Key Findings from the Studies

Strong potential for hydrogen in airport operations

Both studies confirm that hydrogen technologies offer significant potential to decarbonise airport operations, particularly in ground handling and terminal energy systems. Hydrogen can reduce CO₂ emissions substantially, with water being the primary by-product when used in fuel cells.

Gradual introduction is recommended

While promising, hydrogen technologies are still emerging. The studies therefore recommend a phased and gradual rollout, starting with selected applications and scaling up over time as infrastructure and market availability improve.

Technology options: fuel cells vs. hydrogen engines

Two main technical pathways were analysed:

• Fuel cells: higher efficiency (typically 45–60%), especially suitable for variable loads and urban-type operations
• Hydrogen combustion engines (H₂-ICE): easier integration into existing platforms but lower efficiency and some emissions (NOx)

The choice depends strongly on the specific use case.

Market availability is growing but still limited

At present, there are only limited hydrogen-powered airport vehicles available commercially, but many manufacturers are expected to introduce solutions within the next few years. This indicates a rapidly developing market, making early preparation by airports crucial.

Infrastructure is a key challenge

A major barrier identified is the need for dedicated hydrogen refuelling infrastructure, including:

• 350 bar and 700 bar refuelling systems
• Compressors, storage, and safety systems
• Significant upfront investment and planning

Infrastructure complexity increases with scale and flexibility requirements.

Regulatory framework still evolving

The studies highlight that there is no fully established regulatory framework for hydrogen use at airports yet. Existing standards can be adapted, but further development and alignment with aviation-specific requirements are needed.

Additional opportunities

The use of GH2 in Airport Terminal Operations Feasibility study shows that hydrogen can also support stationary energy use in terminals, including:

• Backup energy systems
• Heating and power supply integration
• Sector coupling with renewable energy

This expands hydrogen’s role beyond vehicles to holistic airport energy systems.

Implications for future airport development

These first studies represent an important milestone for the BSRHyAirport project. They provide a knowledge base for airports, policymakers, and industry stakeholders, helping to guide future investments and pilot implementations.

The results underline that while challenges remain hydrogen is a viable and promising solution for making airports more sustainable.

Read the studies:

Feasibility study on the use of GH₂ in airport terminal operations

Feasibility study on the general use of gaseous hydrogen in airport machinery

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