Paris, June 18, 2025 – Airbus and MTU Aero Engines have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to accelerate the development of hydrogen fuel cell propulsion systems for future commercial aircraft. Announced at the 55th Paris Air Show, this partnership aims to lay the groundwork for a revolutionary, zero-emissions flight concept.
The collaboration combines Airbus’ leadership in hydrogen-powered aircraft through its ZEROe initiative, with MTU’s expertise in engine design and innovation, particularly in fuel-cell-based electric propulsion via its Flying Fuel Cell concept.
A Three-Step Roadmap to Clean Propulsion
he agreement outlines a clear path to future development:
- Mature key technologies via joint research projects like Clean Aviation
- Align R&T roadmaps between Airbus and MTU on hydrogen propulsion
- Evaluate feasibility for developing a commercial-scale fuel cell engine
“Together, we are not just imagining a sustainable future of flight—we are actively pioneering it,” said Bruno Fichefeux, Head of Future Programmes at Airbus.
“This partnership allows us to tackle both the technological and platform integration challenges,” added Dr. Stefan Weber, SVP Engineering and Technology at MTU Aero Engines.
Toward Zero-Emission Commercial Aviation
Hydrogen is seen as one of the most promising enablers of aviation decarbonization. Airbus reaffirmed its commitment to this path in March 2025 by shifting focus entirely to fuel cell electric propulsion. Key components like cryogenic hydrogen storage, powertrain testing, and electric motors are already under development.
Meanwhile, MTU leads the HEROPS project (Hydrogen-Electric Zero Emission Propulsion System), a Clean Aviation initiative started in 2024 that focuses on a climate-neutral hydrogen-electric powertrain based on their Flying Fuel Cell.
With this MoU, Airbus and MTU take a decisive step toward industrialising hydrogen aviation, promising not only clean flight but a new ecosystem of propulsion technologies.
