Brisbane Airport is set to become the launch site for Australia’s first hydrogen-powered commercial flights as Brisbane-based Stralis Aircraft prepares for test flights and a 2027 rollout.
Stralis Aircraft, with headquarters in Brisbane Airport, is set to become a key player in Australia’s shift towards clean aviation, with plans underway to introduce the country’s first hydrogen-powered commercial flights.
In collaboration with Central Queensland (CQ) University, Starlis Aircraft is developing a hydrogen-electric propulsion system that could make air travel cheaper and more sustainable. If successful, the technology will be used for regular flights between Brisbane and Gladstone by 2027, potentially transforming regional air travel.
A Push for Cleaner Skies
Stralis Aircraft is working to integrate high-temperature proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells into aircraft, which provide greater efficiency and power compared to traditional hydrogen fuel cells. The company has already completed ground tests, successfully using gaseous hydrogen to turn a propeller, and is now preparing for a test flight later this year.
The aviation industry has long struggled to cut emissions, with most airlines still relying on fossil fuels. Hydrogen, however, produces zero carbon emissions, releasing only water vapour into the atmosphere.
CQ University hydrogen expert Jonathon Love noted that while batteries work for short-haul flights, hydrogen is better suited for mid-range routes, making it an ideal solution for regional travel in Australia.
Brisbane’s Role in the Green Transition
For Stralis Aircraft’s hydrogen flights to become a reality, Brisbane Airport will likely need new refuelling infrastructure. Green hydrogen production is still in its early stages in Australia, but Stralis is actively sourcing hydrogen from local suppliers, particularly in Gladstone.
Dr Emma Whittlesea from Stralis Aircraft stated that while liquid hydrogen offers greater energy efficiency, handling and storage challenges remain.
With the aviation sector under pressure to decarbonise, Brisbane Airport’s involvement in hydrogen-powered flight could position the city as a leader in sustainable air travel. While major international airports focus on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) as an interim solution, regional airports like Brisbane are exploring alternative pathways to reduce their carbon footprint.
Global Interest and Future Outlook
The demand for cleaner aviation technology is growing, and Stralis Aircraft has already attracted $372 million in letters of intent from 10 airlines across multiple continents. While specific airlines remain confidential, interest spans the United States, Europe, Asia, Australia, and New Zealand.
SkyTrans Airlines, a regional carrier, has already signed on as a launch customer, aiming to operate Brisbane-to-Gladstone flights using Stralis’ hydrogen aircraft.
As test flights approach, the next major challenge will be scaling up hydrogen production and infrastructure to support regular commercial use. Dr Whittlesea expressed confidence that these hurdles will be overcome for the 2027 launch.
Published 30-January-2025