Hydrogen Aircraft Market – By Power Source, By Technology, By Range, By Passenger Capacity, By Application– Global Forecast, 2025 – 2034

Hydrogen Aircraft Market Size

The global hydrogen aircraft market size was valued at USD 390.9 million in 2024 and is estimated to grow at CAGR of 28.7% to reach USD 4.8 billion by 2034. The growth of market is attributed to an increased usage of sustainable aviation fuel and growing focus on reducing carbon emission.
 

The rise in international travel demand has led to an increase in carbon emission from the aviation sector. For instance, according to IEA aviation accounted for 2.5% share of the global carbon emissions in 2023 reaching almost 950 MT in volume which was 90% more than pre-covid levels. To curb the carbon emissions from the aviation sector, the industry is moving towards greener alternatives such as hydrogen powered aircraft, which is the key factor propelling the growth in the market.
 

Hydrogen produced using renewable energy sources like wind and solar power offers a clean and sustainable solution to reduce carbon emissions. It can revolutionize the aviation industry. For instance, Boeing has highlighted that green hydrogen can significantly reduce the aviation environment by eliminating harmful emissions. On the level of innovation and infrastructure investment required, hydrogen's role in aircraft propulsion could initiate to make an impact in the longer term.
 

Companies should prioritize their R&D in advanced fuel cell technology to attract more investment from the government or private sector. While initial adoption would be for short-haul/ regional flights during the R&D phase, long-term scalability into long-haul flights would address energy density challenges and through cross-border collaborations, companies will be benefitted.
 

There is a rise in demand for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) also caters to market growth of hydrogen aircraft. For instance, according to IATA aviation industry consumed around 450,000 to 500,00 tons of SAF in 2023 and thus, reaching market size of SAF to USD 756 million to 2023. Moreover, major players like Boeing are investing in producing green hydrogen which is the cleanest form of SAF for aviation sector.
 

Companies are heading towards collaborations in the aviation sector which result in successful demonstrations of the adoption of hydrogen propulsion, reducing emissions and advancing overall sustainable aviation technologies. For instance, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines and ZeroAvia have announced plans to collaborate for hydrogen aircraft for a large regional aircraft such as ZeroAvia’s ZA2000 zero-emission. Such partnerships highlight the growth of hydrogen aircraft.
 

Upcoming technologies in the aviation industry are rising continuously which significantly enhances the hydrogen aircraft market. Airbus and Toshiba ‘s collaboration to explore superconducting technology for hydrogen-powered aircraft. By developing advanced superconducting motors, this partnership will enhance overall efficiency and performance, which results in the development of hydrogen powered aircraft and supporting the industry by heading it towards sustainable aviation.
 

Hydrogen fuel is the future of the aviation industry. According to the IEA estimates, green hydrogen would save the 830 million tons of CO2 that are emitted annually when this gas is produced using fossil fuels. Therefore, companies should invest more and more in greener technology at the earliest opportunity to establish a strong foothold in the market.
 

The hydrogen aircraft industry refers to the usage of hydrogen powered airplanes, which reduce carbon emissions and aims towards sustainable aviation. This includes the production of hydrogen fuel, which results in designing aircraft that run on hydrogen and building infrastructure necessary for fueling and supporting these aircrafts.
 

Hydrogen Aircraft Market Trends

• Liquid hydrogen is gaining attention as it is a better solution for zero emission fuel. Companies which are aiming toward sustainability by reducing carbon emission are increasingly investing in liquid hydrogen powered aircraft. For instance, Dutch company FoKker next Gen NV unveiled their plans to develop a clean-sheet aircraft focusing on zero carbon emission in 2035.  The aircraft is designed 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). It features dual-fuel design capable of running on liquid hydrogen, SAF.
   
• Companies are heading towards the greener technology for aviation fuel. In a significant move towards advancing hydrogen technology in the aviation industry, In 2024, Airbus formed a partnership with Kansai Airports to explore and enhance the use of hydrogen as a sustainable energy source. This collaboration leads to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 and support integration of hydrogen fuel into airport operations.
   
• Major companies completed purchase of hydrogen aircraft highlight move towards zero emission aviation. American airlines have committed a conditional purchase of 100 hydrogen electric engines from ZeroAviia in 2024. This move reflects the growing trend of airlines investing in hydrogen powered technology which reduces in-flight emissions and also supports sustainable aviation.
   

Hydrogen Aircraft Market Analysis

Based on power source, the market is bifurcated into hydrogen combustion, hydrogen fuel cell. Technological advancement in both hydrogen combustion and hydrogen fuel cell has improved overall engine efficiency and performance and thus, propelling the market forward.
 

• The hydrogen combustion market was valued at USD 263.3 million in 2024. Due to growing stringent regulations from government around the world to reduce carbon emissions have induced airlines to adopt cleaner combustion technologies which is a key factor driving the market. For instance, Pratt & Whitney demonstration of hydrogen combustion on the PW127XT regional turboprop engine, under the Hydrogen Advanced Design Engine Study (HyADES), highlights the industry's commitment to green aviation.
   
• The fully hydrogen fuel cell is expected to grow with a CAGR of 26.3% from 2025 to 2034. Rising technological developments and increase in investment by major companies in hydrogen fuel cell technology are driving the market growth. For instance, H2FLY is leading a follow-on research program to boost the output of its hydrogen fuel cell system, enabling it to power larger regional aircraft.
   

Based on technology, the hydrogen aircraft market is divided into fully hydrogen-powered aircraft, hybrid electric aircraft. Technological advancement such as development of lightweight, high-performance fuel cells and improved hydrogen storage methods are driving the growth of overall segment.
 

• The fully hydrogen-powered aircraft is expected to grow with a CAGR of 30.1% for the year 2025 to 2034. Technological advancement in hydrogen storage and fuel cell efficiency is driving market growth. The growth in this segment is also fueled by government support and policy to reduce carbon emissions.
   
• The hybrid electric aircraft held the largest share of 82.6% in the year 2024 and is expected to continue its dominance till the forecast period. Integration of traditional propulsion system with hydrogen reduces dependency on a single power source, thereby mitigating operational risks which are driving the market. For instance, EcoPulse results suggest a bright future for hybrid-electric aviation after 50 test flights show positive results with up to around 100 flight hours.
   

Based on range, the market is bifurcated into up to 1000 km, 1000 km to 2000 km, Over 2000 km. The expansion of hydrogen aviation infrastructure for regional and short-haul flights is the key factor driving the segment growth.
 

• The hydrogen aircraft market for range up to 1000 km was valued at USD 219.6 million in 2024. Companies are focusing on the design of the aircraft for range and number of passengers, which results in demand for hydrogen aircraft up to 1000 km. For instance, AMSL Aero's Vertiia has designed aircraft to fly up to 1,000km (620 miles) on hydrogen at a cruising speed of 300km/hour (186 MPH) with zero carbon emissions, carrying up to four passengers and a pilot.
   
• The 1000 km to 2000 km hydrogen aircraft industry is growing at the highest rate of 30.3% for the forecast period. Startups are advancing technologies through usage of liquid hydrogen for 1000 km to 2000 km hydrogen aircraft which is driving the market. For instance, Swiss startup Sirius Aviation AG successfully demonstrated a test flight for its aircraft by using liquid hydrogen and has achieved a record flight range of 1,850 km for the three-seat version.
   
• The hydrogen aircraft market for over 2000 km has a market share of 14.1% in 2024. Growing partnership and collaboration between companies for the development of long-range aircraft travel is driving the market. For instance, Fokker Next Gen partners with airBaltic on new liquid hydrogen powered commercial aircraft. The Fokker Next Gen jet is designed to carry 120-150 passengers over 2,500 kilometres, powered by both liquid hydrogen and sustainable aviation fuel, enabling operation on either fuel depending on availability at destinations.
   

Based on passenger capacity, the market is bifurcated into up to 4 passengers, 5 to 10 passengers, more than 10 passengers. Increase in passenger flight powered by greener fuel technology is driving the market.
 

• The hydrogen aircraft market for up to 4 passengers was valued at USD 87.8 million in 2024. This segment is gaining momentum, due to driving innovation in sustainable aviation. For instance, HES Energy Systems is unveiling its plans for Element One which is designed to fly 4 passengers for 500 km to 5000 km depending on whether hydrogen is stored in gaseous or liquid form.
   
• The 5 to 10 passengers hydrogen aircraft industry is expected to grow with a CAGR of 28.2% for the year 2025 to 2034. This market segment is emerging as a solution for short regional flights. This hydrogen powered plane offers the potential for zero-emission travel, which reduces carbon emission on short-haul routes which are driving the market.
   
• The more than 10 passengers’ hydrogen aircraft held the highest market share of 59.9% in 2024. The growth in this segment can be seen due to the growing focus on the development of wider-body aircraft that can carry large number of passengers.
   

Based on application, the market is segmented into commercial, military & defense. Growing demand for sustainable aviation solutions in commercial and military application is driving the segment growth.
 

• The commercial market was valued at USD 265.8 million in 2024. The push for liquid hydrogen-powered commercial aircraft is accelerating, due to growing partnerships with key companies paving the way for innovation in sustainable aviation. Companies are focusing on developing liquid commercial hydrogen through partnerships such as Latvian national airline airBaltic has partnered with Netherlands-based Fokker Next Gen to develop a new liquid hydrogen powered commercial aircraft, to be manufactured at sites in both countries.
   
• The military & defense hydrogen aircraft market is expected to grow with a CAGR of 25.1% for the year 2025-2034. In military & defense the market is gaining attention as a potential solution for reducing emission and enhancing overall operation. As defense forces push for sustainable and cost-effective solutions for hydrogen aircraft it plays an important role in military operations and reduces carbon footprint.
   

The North America hydrogen aircraft market is projected to grow significantly, reaching market size of USD 1.87 billion by 2034. The region is concentrated with some of the largest hydrogen aircraft manufacturer such as Airbus and Aerovironment Inc, coupled with government initiative like the Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) program is driving the market in the region
 

• The U.S. market for hydrogen aircraft is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 29.1% for the year 2025 to 2034. Companies in U.S is increasing investment in aviation technologies particularly in hydrogen powered and VTOL systems which is driving the market. For instance, in 2024 Piasecki Aircraft Corporation received a $37 million multi-year contract by AFWERX, the Air Force’s innovation arm in conjunction with the Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL), as part of its Strategic Funding Increase (STRATFI) program. This enables Piasecki to demonstrate its Aerial Reconfigurable Embedded System (ARES) tilt-duct vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) unmanned aerial system (UAS) as well as industry-leading hydrogen fuel cell propulsion technologies for VTOL.
   
• The Canada hydrogen aircraft market was valued at USD 131.8 million in 2024. Growing collaboration between major aircraft manufacturers to strength the hydrogen infrastructure of the country is driving the market. For instance, in 2024 Airbus and ZeroAvia have signed three respective Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Canada’s three busiest airports, Montréal–Trudeau International Airport (YUL), Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) and Vancouver International Airport (YVR) to study the feasibility of hydrogen infrastructure at airports in Canada.
   

In Europe the hydrogen aircraft market is predicted to register a CAGR of 27.2% for the year 2025 to 2034. Strict carbon neutrality regulations and ambitious net-zero emission targets in the region is driving the market growth. Moreover, companies are heading towards partnerships for development of hydrogen aircraft with the support of associations such as UK Civil Aviation Authority is also expected to boost the market.
 

• Projections indicate that the hydrogen aircraft market in the Germany is expected to reach USD 22.1 million in 2034. Stricker government policy to reduce carbon emissions and rising public and private investment in hydrogen aircraft technology is driving the market in the country.
   
• The UK market for hydrogen aircraft has a market share of 20.8% in 2024. The UK is becoming a key player in hydrogen aviation, with major companies collaborating to build the infrastructure and technology necessary for widespread hydrogen fuel adoption, advancing the future of sustainable air travel and growth in market. Multiple leading UK companies are working with the UK Civil Aviation Authority to develop the technology and infrastructure of the future to widespread hydrogen fuel use in aviation.
   
• The France hydrogen aircraft market is projected to grow with a CAGR of 28.2% for the year 2025 to 2034. The development of liquid hydrogen engines for light aviation is advancing, with French firms leading the way in sustainable aviation is driving the market growth of hydrogen aircraft in the cuntry. These innovations play an important role in reducing emissions and making hydrogen-powered flight.
   
• The Spain hydrogen aircraft industry was valued at USD 7.1 million in 2024. The growth of the market in Spain is gaining momentum, with key players collaborating to drive innovation and sustainability in aviation. Airbus, Aena, Air Nostrum, Iberia, Exolum and Repsol are partnering to study the creation of the first hydrogen airport hub located in Spain. These six companies have joined forces to address the main challenges to deploy hydrogen-powered aviation in the country.
   
• The Italy hydrogen aircraft market is anticipated to grow with a CAGR of 26% for the year 2025 to 2034.  In Italy companies are majorly focusing on partnerships such as Snam and SAGAT team up to set up the first hydrogen-ready fuel cell system at Torino Airport in Italy. These companies had signed a term sheet for the construction of a hydrogen-ready fuel cell system in cogeneration mode with a capacity of 1.2 MW at Torino Airport.
   

The Asia Pacific hydrogen aircraft market is projected to grow significantly, reaching over USD 1.62 billion by 2034. In Asia Pacific the market is growing rapidly with continuous development through government initiatives, and investments to build infrastructure for hydrogen powered aircraft. Countries are investing on the projects relate to hydrogen for development which is driving the hydrogen aircraft.
 

• The hydrogen aircraft market in China stood at USD 47.5 million in 2024. The country’s aggressive push toward clean energy innovation is driving the market. For instance, the construction has started on staggering USD 3 billion green hydrogen-to-aviation fuel plant in Shuangyashan, China, set to produce 300,000 tons of green aviation fuel annually in 2024. This project represents a significant advancement in integrating renewable energy sources to produce sustainable aviation fuel, highlighting China's commitment to reducing carbon emissions.
   
• The hydrogen aircraft market in India held is 14.2% share in 2024 in Asia Pacific region. Startups in India are majorly focusing on sustainability through development of hydrogen aircrafts which is set to drive the market growth. In a significant breakthrough India's aerospace, Hyderabad-based startup BluJ Aero unveiled its first hydrogen electric Vertical Take-Off and Landing (H2eVTOL) aircraft.
   
• The Japan hydrogen aircraft market is projected to grow with a CAGR of 31.1% for the year 2025 to 2034. In Japan the market is experiencing significant growth as the country invests heavily in pioneering projects while focusing on hydrogen fuel cell technologies for aviation. The country plans to build the world’s largest hydrogen fuel cell for aviation with an investment of USD 110 million.
   
• The market for hydrogen aircraft in the Australia was valued at USD 4.4 million in 2024. In Australia with companies and airports making significant investments to advance hydrogen-powered aviation technologies which is driving the market. Companies are investing in development of hydrogen aircraft such as Bankstown Airport Australia has revealed its hydrogen aircraft. The company will be home to AMSL Aero’s first hydrogen-powered flights of its battery-hydrogen VTOL aircraft.
   
• South Korean hydrogen aircraft market held a market share of 7.4% in 2024. In South Korea the growth for market is increasing with significant investments in infrastructure to support hydrogen-powered aviation which drives the progress toward net-zero goals.
   

In the Latin America the hydrogen aircraft market is predicted to register a CAGR of 25% for the year 2025 to 2034. Companies are heading towards heavy investment and sustainability through overcoming threats related to environment through emission of hazardous pollution which is driving the market.
 

• The Brazil hydrogen aircraft market was valued at USD 6.3 million in 2024. Heavy investments in Brazil plays a major key role for the growth of the market, as the country focuses on clean hydrogen infrastructure to drive sustainable aviation. For instance, in 2024 the country announced a $1.09 billion investment in clean hydrogen hubs, and SAF development aiming bolster the country's position in the global hydrogen market.
   
• The Mexico hydrogen aircraft industry held share of 24.8% in 2024 in Latin America. In Mexico continuously focusing on growing adoption of hydrogen powered aircraft through partnership and collaboration which is driving the market.
   

The Middle East and Africa hydrogen aircraft market is projected to grow significantly, reaching over USD 234.9 million by 2034. In Middle East and Africa, the market is growing rapidly with continuous development through government initiatives and support for sustainability.
 

• The Saudi Arabia hydrogen aircraft market was valued at USD 10 million in 2024. The market in the country is experiencing significant growth as companies and investors are financing hydrogen propulsion technology to push the boundaries of sustainable aviation. Companies are partnering and investing in towards hydrogen powered aircraft, such as Airbus, Barclays, and Saudis Invest in hydrogen propulsion pioneer ZeroAvi. According to ZeroAvia, the new capital will accelerate its efforts to secure the first supplemental type certificate it needs to convert regional airliners to use its fuel cell electric propulsion system.
   
• The South Africa market for hydrogen held a market share of 14.9% in 2024. The market in the country is growing due to increasing focus on SAF production and greener fuel technologies for aviation.
   
• The hydrogen aircraft market in the UAE is projected to grow with a CAGR of 25.4% for the year 2025 to 2034. Key partnerships between major aircraft manufacturers aiming at building essential infrastructure to support the growth of hydrogen-powered aviation is fueling the market growth.
   

Hydrogen Aircraft Market Share

The hydrogen aircraft industry is highly competitive due to presences of major player. Airbus SE, Aerovironment Inc, Aerodelft, Skai (Under Alaka’i Technologies), Hes Energy Systems are the top 5 companies accounting for a significant share of 57% in the market.
 

The players in this market compete with one another through technology advancements, price differentiation for premium quality, and geographical expansion. Intensification of competition will be seen by the rising demand for sustainable aviation fuel and the growing adoption of hydrogen powered applications in hydrogen aircraft market.
 

Companies are investing highly in R&D for developing hydrogen aircraft models to enhance overall efficiency. Moreover, companies are focusing on developing zero emission propulsion systems, including hydrogen fuel cells and combustion technologies. Such innovations are focusing on reducing aviation’s carbon emission, fuel efficiency and integrate with existing aviation infrastructure.
 

Hydrogen Aircraft Market Companies

Some of the eminent market participants operating in the hydrogen aircraft industry include:

• Aerodelft
• Aerovironment Inc
• Airbus SE
• Apus Group
• Flyka
• GKN Aerospace (Under Melrose Industries Plc.)
• Hes Energy Systems
• Pipistrel D.O.O
• Skai (Under Alaka’i Technologies)
• Urban Aeronautics Ltd.
• ZeroAvia Inc.
   

Airbus SE is a dominant player in hydrogen aircraft market. The development of hydrogen-powered aircraft in airbus is a key growth factor for the market as the company is focusing on innovation in sustainable aviation. For instance, Airbus advancements are at progressing stage, a crucial component is necessary for the creation of a global hydrogen ecosystem. This involves building infrastructure for hydrogen production, storage, and distribution, which results into Airbus can deliver its hydrogen aircraft to a global market. This focus on aircraft technology and infrastructure is important for driving the growth of market.
 

The hydrogen aircraft market is continuously evolving, which results into significant growth opportunities for AeroVironment towards innovation. AeroVironment has patented a hydrogen-fueled powerplant that incorporates a two-stage turbocharger and control system to optimize efficiency. By developing this technology, AeroVironment is enhancing its role in the growing market.
 

Hydrogen Aircraft Industry News

• In September 2023, Pipistrel Aircraft flew the first piloted hydrogen-powered liquid electric aircraft.  Pipistrel claims the use of liquid hydrogen instead of compressed hydrogen gas doubles the range of the aircraft to about 800 nautical miles.
   
• In July 2024, GKN Aerospace launched H2FlyGHT, a revolutionary USD 54.52 million project. This collaborative initiative develops a 2-megawatt (MW) cryogenic hydrogen-electric propulsion system, setting new standards for the future generation of larger sustainable aircraft.
   
• In January 2023, ZeroAvia successfully conducted the inaugural flight of its 19-seat Dornier 228 testbed aircraft. This aircraft, retrofitted with a full-size prototype hydrogen-electric powertrain, marks the largest to be powered by a hydrogen-electric engine.
   

The hydrogen aircraft market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2034 for the following segments:

Click here to Buy Section of this Report

Market, By Power Source

• Hydrogen Combustion
• Hydrogen Fuel Cell

Market, By Technology

• Fully Hydrogen-Powered Aircraft
• Hybrid Electric Aircraft

Market, By Range

• Up to 1000 km
• 1000 km to 2000 km
• Over 2000 km

Market, By Passenger Capacity

• Up to 4 Passengers
• 5 to 10 Passengers
• More than 10 Passengers

Market, By Application

• Commercial
• Military & Defense

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada 
• Europe
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Spain
  • Italy
  • Netherlands 
• Asia Pacific
  • China
  • India
  • Japan
  • Australia
  • South Korea 
• Latin America
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
  • Argentina 
• Middle East and Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • South Africa
  • UAE