Investigation of the Challenges and Issues of Hydrogen and Hydrogen Fuel Cell Applications in Aviation

Aviation is an vital global industry that generates economic growth, creates jobs and facilitates national and international trade and tourism. During the Covid-19 pandemic, the world had seen a sharp decline in commercial air travel due to the worldwide travel restrictions, lock-down orders and widespread fear of infection. However, there is a rapid increase in the use of UAVs for surveillance, communication, delivery and transport. And the aviation industry is believed to be able to provide valid contribution to the post-pandemic economic recovery. In order to reduce the carbon emission from aviation industry, there is a requirement for more electric aircraft. Hydrogen and fuel cell system's capability of creating a clean road transportation have been widely tested. In this paper, the status of hydrogen and fuel cell utilised in aviation is reviewed, and the challenges and issues are identified for a better integration of the hydrogen and fuel cell system in aviation.