China advances hydrogen air freight

The Aero Engine Corporation of China (AECC) announces that the China Aero Engine Research Institute, the research institute for aviation engines in China, successfully conducted the first test flight of a hydrogen-powered turboprop engine with a power output of one megawatt on April 4, 2026. The engine, known as AEP100, was mounted on an unmanned transport aircraft weighing 7.5 tons and took off from Lushong Airport in Zhuzhou. This test represents a significant advancement in the development of hydrogen propulsion for aviation.

During the 16-minute flight, the aircraft reached a speed of 220 km/h and an altitude of 300 m. After successfully completing the planned flight maneuvers, the aircraft safely returned to its starting point. The test confirmed the functionality of the engine and its reliability in aviation applications.

Advancements in Hydrogen Technology

The successful test flight marks an important step in the development of hydrogen-powered aviation engines in China. It demonstrates that the country is capable of mastering the entire technical chain from core components to integration into the aircraft. This lays a crucial foundation for the future industrialization of hydrogen in aviation and represents a significant advancement in the implementation of green propulsion technologies.

With the anticipated reduction in the costs of producing green hydrogen, the economic and energy security of this technology will further improve. The application of hydrogen propulsion is initially expected in areas such as unmanned air freight transport and logistics for islands before being expanded to manned aircraft. This technology could also drive the development of infrastructure for hydrogen storage and refueling, as well as the production of high-quality materials and equipment, contributing to the sustainable development of the aviation industry in China.

www.aecc.cn