Fokker Next Gen's dual-fuel hydrogen aircraft targets commercial service by 2035

Dutch company Fokker Next Gen NV has unveiled its plans to develop a clean sheet aircraft that contributes towards the net-zero carbon emission vision of the aviation industry. 

Scheduled to enter into commercial service by 2035, the company claims that the futuristic aircraft will seamlessly fit into current airline operations against comparable cost (CASK).

Conceived as a single aisle narrow body commercial aircraft with a seating capacity of 120 to 150 passengers,, the flight targets a flying range of 2,590 kms (1,400 nm).

The aircraft will have an innovative dual fuel design, enabling the aircraft to fly on liquid hydrogen combustion (LH2), sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), and even regular jet fuel if no other low-carbon fuels are available, according to the company. 

When pure hydrogen is combusted, the only byproducts are oxygen and water, meaning a flight purely powered by LH2 would produce zero CO2 emissions while in flight. Use of green hydrogen produced through renewable sources will provide a truly zero-CO2 flight, the company adds. 

Formerly known as Rekkof Restart, Fokker Next Gen is keen on developing hydrogen aviation solutions for commercial airliners. The company is also reported to have plans to retrofit an existing Fokker 100 aircraft with hydrogen engines, with test flights planned for 2028. 

Last month, the company has also signed an MoU with AirBaltic to strengthen teamwork and collaboration into the incorporation of hydrogen powered aircraft scheduled to enter service in 2035.