"Hydrogen-Powered Airplanes Are a ’22nd-Century Dream,’ Says Safran CEO – Here’s Why"

• Why Hydrogen Planes Won’t Take Off Before the 2100s
• The SAF Stopgap: What’s Fueling Airlines Now?
• Investor Turbulence: Who’s Winning the Green Sky Race?
• FAQ: Burning Questions About Hydrogen Flight

The CEO of aerospace giant Safran, Olivier Andriès, recently made waves by declaring hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft a distant future prospect—likely not viable until the 22nd century. While the aviation industry races toward decarbonization, this sobering assessment contrasts with optimistic timelines from competitors. We break down the technical hurdles, current alternatives like SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), and what this means for investors eyeing the "green aviation" boom.

Why Hydrogen Planes Won’t Take Off Before the 2100s

Andriès’ stance isn’t just corporate pessimism—it’s physics. Hydrogen’s low energy density per volume means fuel tanks WOULD consume half an aircraft’s cabin space. "You’d board a plane only to find your seat replaced by a hydrogen tank," joked an Airbus engineer anonymously. Cryogenic storage (-253°C) and brittle materials at those temperatures add billions to R&D costs. For context, Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner took $32 billion and 7 years to develop; hydrogen planes could dwarf that.

The SAF Stopgap: What’s Fueling Airlines Now?

With hydrogen grounded, airlines like Delta and Lufthansa are betting on Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF)—biofuels blended with kerosene. SAF cuts emissions by 80% but costs 3x more. "It’s like putting premium ethanol in your 1990 Honda," quips BTCC analyst Mark Chen. TradingView data shows SAF production rising 120% YoY, yet it covers just 0.1% of global jet fuel demand. Governments are stepping in: the EU mandates 2% SAF blends by 2025, with a 70% target by 2050.

Investor Turbulence: Who’s Winning the Green Sky Race?

While Safran pumps the brakes, rivals are sprinting. Airbus aims for a hydrogen prototype by 2035, backed by €15 billion in EU subsidies. Startups like ZeroAvia already test 19-seat hydrogen planes. "This isn’t a winner-takes-all market," notes Chen. "Think Tesla vs. Toyota—both EV and hybrid thrived." CoinMarketCap tracks 12 "green aerospace" ETFs, with the iShares Sustainable Aviation Fund (SAF) up 18% since January.

FAQ: Burning Questions About Hydrogen Flight

Why does Safran’s CEO doubt hydrogen planes?

Technical barriers like fuel storage and infrastructure make commercial-scale hydrogen aviation impractical before 2100, per Safran’s assessment.

What’s the current alternative to hydrogen for green flying?

SAF (Sustainable Aviation Fuel), though expensive, is the leading near-term solution with major airline adoption.

Are there any hydrogen aircraft projects underway?

Yes—Airbus plans a 2035 prototype, while startups like ZeroAvia test smaller models. None are commercially viable yet.