Engine developer and MRO supplier advancing Flying Fuel Cell hydrogen-electric propulsion.
Propulsion Architecture
Flying Fuel Cell converts hydrogen into electricity for electric propulsion. MTU’s HEROPS work investigates a modular 1.8 MW research architecture; demonstrated subsystem tests and planned integration are distinct.
Primary Certification Context
Supplier / Component
Strengths
MTU brings aircraft-engine development, manufacturing and MRO experience to hydrogen-electric propulsion research. Its July 2026 update reports completed hydrogen and air supply-system testing, construction of a 350 kW fuel-cell stack and a full-system demonstrator, and a renewed EASA innovation partnership.
The planned Airbus partnership aims to combine propulsion and airframe integration expertise. It remains a conditional joint-venture plan with operations expected in 2027.
Weaknesses / Open Questions
Flying Fuel Cell has not been established here as a type-certified engine or operational aircraft installation. Integrated test results, cooling and mass budgets, aircraft integration and a regulator-approved certification case remain decisive.
HEROPS scaling goals and potential 2035 regional-aircraft applications are research objectives, not approved performance or service dates. The Airbus venture remains subject to regulatory and social processes.
Last Updated
October 12, 2026
