Manchester Airport eyes zero-emission aircraft in the next decade with new challenge to the aviation industry

Airlines taking part in the competition to win the free landing fees will be given free rein in their choice of low-emission technology, including electric and hydrogen technology

The Manchester Airport Group has fired the starting pistol on a competition for the first airline to operate a zero-emission commercial flight from one of its airports. 

This is the first challenge of its kind in the industry, which will see the successful carrier win five years’ free landing fees worth up to £1.3million in today’s prices.

Karen Smart, Managing Director of Manchester Airport, said: “At Manchester Airport we have always been extremely proud of the region we serve, and we owe a great deal to the local communities around the airport.  This is why we place such an emphasis on supporting those communities as well as remaining ambitious in our approach to sustainability.

“There will always be more we can do, which is why we are setting our sights on seeing zero-carbon aircraft on our runway in the next 10-15 years, along with a commitment to be a net zero-carbon business by 2038.

“While Coronavirus will have an impact on our business for some time to come, we cannot take our eye off the need for sustainable growth in the long term, and these plans will set us on the right course to achieve this.” 

Airlines taking part in the competition to win the free landing fees will be given free rein in their choice of low-emission technology, including electric and hydrogen technology.

It comes after global manufacturer Airbus last month revealed three concept ‘ZEROe’ hydrogen powered commercial aircraft, which could carry up to 200 passengers from the UK across Europe from 2035. The first commercial-grade six-seater aircraft powered by a hydrogen fuel cell was also showcased at Cranfield University in September.

Sustainable Aviation, the UK aviation industry’s sustainability group has forecast that the sector can expect to see the first zero emission regional or short-haul flight in around 10-15 years’ time.

MAG’s initiative will complement the full range of measures needed to help the UK reach its Net Zero 2050 target, including modernising UK airspace, sustainable aviation fuels, smart flight operations and new aircraft technology.

The competition comes as the UK’s largest airport group publishes its annual CSR Report, which includes a landmark commitment to become a net zero carbon business by 2038, aligning with Greater Manchester Mayor Andy Burnham’s 2038 environmental targets.

The pledge by Manchester Airport Group is 12 years ahead of the UK’s aviation industry target to become net zero carbon by 2050.

The group has also committed to a series of community targets, such as investing £100,000 a year in supporting local projects, and education and employment goals, including supporting the education of 50,000 young people.