Fokker Next Gen N.V. (Fokker Next Gen), a trailblazing manufacturer of commercial aircraft powered by liquid hydrogen, has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Air Baltic Corporation AS (airBaltic), Latvia’s flag carrier. This agreement signals a collaborative endeavor between the two entities, with plans for aircraft production in both the Netherlands and Latvia. Under this memorandum, airBaltic will provide valuable insights to aid in the development of Fokker Next Gen’s liquid hydrogen combustion-powered commercial aircraft. This collaboration presents airBaltic with an opportunity to explore the suitability of hydrogen-powered aircraft for its flight routes.
Leveraging its prowess in aircraft design, certification, and assembly, Fokker Next Gen is pioneering a liquid hydrogen-powered aircraft set to revolutionize the aviation sector. Equipped with a dual fuel system, the aircraft will also operate on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) or kerosene when liquid hydrogen is unavailable. This partnership aims to capitalize on the unique abilities of each company and delve into the extensive possibilities of using liquid hydrogen to power commercial aircraft in the aviation industry.
Committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050 in alignment with industry and EU targets, airBaltic is actively pursuing operational excellence and embracing innovation. Collaborations like this partnership with Fokker Next Gen underscore airBaltic’s dedication to advancing sustainable practices and adopting industry-leading solutions.
‘airBaltic’s engagement with hydrogen-powered aircraft is crucial’ states Juriaan Kellermann, CEO of Fokker Next Gen. ‘Our joint effort not only propels forward innovative aircraft design, informed by direct user feedback, but also boosts the Dutch and Latvian economies. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to pioneering the future of aviation.’ “We are excited to sign this MoU and collaborate with Fokker Next Gen by sharing our insights and expertise in their work to develop a hydrogen-powered aircraft. We see this as an important step for the future of the aviation,” Gauss added.
