In a move that promises to redefine the landscape of sustainable aviation, Kerala is set to pioneer the world's inaugural hydrogen-fuelled Vertical Take-Off and Landing (VTOL) aircraft ecosystem. A landmark quadripartite Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) has been forged between Bharat Petroleum Corporation Limited (BPCL), BluJ Aerospace, the Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research and Technology (ANERT), the Government of Kerala, and Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL), heralding a new era of green air mobility.

This ambitious project, formalized on March 12, marks a significant stride towards India's ambitious goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. By integrating hydrogen-powered VTOL aircraft, Kerala is positioning itself as a global leader in sustainable aviation, offering the promise of faster, quieter, and more efficient air travel with a significantly reduced carbon footprint.

G. Krishnakumar, Chairman and Managing Director of BPCL, underscored the transformative potential of green hydrogen in revolutionizing both aviation and urban transportation. "This partnership reflects our unwavering commitment to pioneering innovative and practical clean energy solutions for a sustainable future," he stated.

A cornerstone of this initiative will be BPCL's development of a comprehensive hydrogen refuelling infrastructure. The company plans to establish Hydrogen Refuelling Stations (HRS) in Kochi and Thiruvananthapuram, providing vital support for the VTOL aircraft and fostering research and pilot projects under Kerala's Hydrogen Valley Programme, spearheaded by ANERT. These stations are envisioned as crucial hubs for the commercialization of hydrogen applications.

Furthermore, BPCL will play a pivotal role in the research and development of an Indigenous Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Hydrogen Fuel Cell, engineered for high power density to facilitate the demanding requirements of vertical lift-off. This technological advancement is poised to propel the development of hydrogen-based aviation, marking a paradigm shift in India's transportation sector.

This initiative extends beyond mere technological innovation, showcasing BPCL's leadership in green energy and laying the groundwork for India's transition to hydrogen-powered aviation. By fostering collaboration between government entities, research institutions, and private enterprises, this project aims to pave the way for a future where sustainable, hydrogen-fuelled air mobility is a tangible reality. The project will start with a smaller scale trial and then expand. The first flights are expected to happen within the next few years, setting a precedent for global aviation.