GKN Aerospace has completed the £54m H2GEAR programme, a major step toward hydrogen-powered, zero-carbon flight. Co-funded by the ATI Programme — a partnership between the Aerospace Technology Institute (ATI), the Department for Business and Trade (DBT), and Innovate UK — the project aimed to reduce technical risk for future hydrogen aircraft applications while strengthening UK capability in design, manufacture, and testing of hydrogen-enabled aerospace systems.
One notable outcome is the launch of HP Drive Technologies (HPD), a joint venture between the University of Nottingham and GKN Aerospace. HPD builds on technologies developed through H2GEAR, providing a dedicated pathway to further develop and industrialise advanced cryogenic drive system technologies for future aerospace applications. The venture represents a tangible legacy of the programme and supports UK leadership in zero-emission aviation technologies.
“GKN Aerospace completes £54m hydrogen-electric flight programme, reducing risk and creating joint venture.”
Jacqueline Castle, chief technology officer at the ATI, said: “H2GEAR has advanced understanding of hydrogen fuel cell aircraft technologies in the UK.” The programme’s success marks a significant milestone in the push to decarbonise aviation, with hydrogen touted as a key zero-carbon energy carrier for future aircraft.