H2 aviation trial underway in Wellington

Air New Zealand, Wellington Airport, Toyota New Zealand, and Hiringa Energy have joined forces to trial using hydrogen to charge Air New Zealand’s electric tugs and service vehicles during the next few weeks at Wellington Airport.

The trial ends March 15, 2024.

The airline wants to pioneer the commercial deployment of green hydrogen-powered aircraft in New Zealand, says Air New Zealand senior sustainability manager Jacob Snelgrove.

“Green hydrogen is starting to be used around the world as a low-emission fuel for buses, trucks, trains, and boats,” he says.

“Aircraft are the logical next step and successful test flights are already underway overseas.

“The biggest challenge here in New Zealand is setting up the supply, transport, and infrastructure to support fuelling the aircraft,” says Snelgrove.

“This trial is an important first step to enable the development of that system.”

Wellington Airport chief executive Matt Clarke says it’s  probably the first time hydrogen has been used at a New Zealand airport.

“The trial will help us assess the viability of hydrogen for charging and give us a good insight into the operational challenges and opportunities.”

Toyota New Zealand has provided the trial’s hydrogen fuel cell which uses hydrogen to generate electricity, with supply coordinated by Hiringa Energy.

“It’s a privilege to be supporting Air New Zealand and Wellington Airport in demonstrating the safe use of hydrogen for use in aviation, says Hiringa Energy chief executive Andrew Clennett.

“Green hydrogen has a significant role to play in decarbonising Aotearoa, and this programme is helping everyone to better understand the benefits of introducing hydrogen to airport operations as we prepare for hydrogen-powered aircraft in the future.”

Toyota New Zealand chief executive Neeraj Lala says using its hydrogen fuel cell generator at Wellington Airport directly aligns with Toyota New Zealand’s strategy.

“We are passionate about advancing the hydrogen economy in New Zealand by introducing innovative new technology that supports our decarbonisation ambition,” he says.

“By showcasing innovative solutions like the fuel cell generator in practical applications such as aviation, we can stimulate demand and demonstrate the viability and benefits of hydrogen technology, ultimately paving the way for broader adoption and investment in hydrogen across various sectors of the New Zealand economy.”

Lala says Toyota fuel cell generators will now provide companies serious about climate with a genuine clean energy alternative.

Meanwhile, Toyota is also providing hydrogen generators to an Australian-based mining services company.