airBaltic and Fokker Next Gen – a liquid hydrogen powered commercial aircraft manufacturer that plans to produce aircraft both in the Netherlands and in Latvia – have announced a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) that sets the stage for a collaborative future in aviation.
The MoU will leverage the insights of airBaltic to contribute to the development of the Fokker Next Gen liquid hydrogen combustion powered commercial aircraft. From airBaltic’s perspective, this is an opportunity to investigate hydrogen aircraft fit for the airline’s routes.
“airBaltic is glad to see such innovative developments being worked on in the Baltic region,” said Martin Gauss, President and CEO, airBaltic. “We are a proud operator of one of the youngest aircraft fleets in Europe and are committed to the industry-wide decarbonisation initiatives. However, we also do understand that the aviation industry needs a joint effort in new technology developments to achieve its long-term commitments. 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.”
Fokker Next Gen is developing a liquid hydrogen fuelled aircraft that aims to revolutionise the industry. The aircraft will be designed with a dual fuel system, so that it can also fly on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) or kerosene when liquid hydrogen is not available.
airBaltic is committed to reaching carbon neutrality by 2050, in line with the aviation industry and EU commitments. To reach that in the long run, airBaltic is dedicated to continuing advancing operational excellence, exploring innovative solutions and implementing industry-wide practices.
“airBaltic’s engagement with hydrogen-powered aircraft is crucial,” said Juriaan Kellermann, CEO, 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.”
