The BSR HyAirport project bridges the gap between vision and reality when it comes to hydrogen adoption in (regional) airports. The discussions in Riga highlighted the urgent need for a clear regulatory framework and cross-sector collaboration to make hydrogen a viable energy source for aviation. We’re proud to see how RIX Riga Airport and Latvian Hydrogen Association taking concrete steps towards integrating hydrogen-powered solutions. This is exactly why BSR HyAirport, supported by Interreg Baltic Sea Region, plays a critical role – bringing together industry, policymakers, and legal experts to shape the future of sustainable aviation. 🌍 The transition is happening. How do you see hydrogen transforming airports in the near future? Let’s keep the conversation going! 💬
🌍The Future of Hydrogen in Aviation – Moving Towards Sustainable Airports This week in Riga, key industry experts, policymakers, and aviation leaders gathered to discuss how regional airports can prepare for green hydrogen adoption and tackle the practical and legal frameworks needed for its successful implementation. 💡 Initial findings? While there are existing standards for hydrogen production and transportation, a clear regulatory framework for its use in airports is still missing. That’s why projects like #BSRHyAirport, funded by the Interreg Baltic Sea Region programme, play a critical role in shaping the future of sustainable aviation. At RIX Riga Airport, we are actively working towards reducing our environmental impact, having already integrated electric RIX Ground Handling equipment, developed a solar panel park for airport energy needs, and exploring hydrogen-powered solutions. As part of this initiative, we have tested a hydrogen-electric bus and plan to test other H2 ground equipment, assessing its potential for long-term use.⚡ As our Chairperson Laila Odina highlighted: “Hydrogen-powered machinery is just one piece of the puzzle. We also need to ensure regulatory clarity, economic feasibility, and strong cooperation with policymakers. In today’s geopolitical climate, strengthening the airport’s energy independence is more important than ever.” Special thanks to: 📌 Eversheds Sutherland Bitāns for leading the legal assessment on hydrogen regulations, presented by Maris Vainovskis 📌 Hamburg Airport, the initiator of the BSR HyAirport project, and all our project partners 📌 Latvian Hydrogen Association and industry experts shaping the roadmap 📌 Klimata un enerģētikas ministrija/Ministry of Climate and Energy, Ekonomikas ministrija/ Ministry of Economics, Ministry of Transport for engaging in the policy discussion 🌱 This is just the beginning of an important shift towards hydrogen-powered aviation. What are your thoughts—how soon do you see hydrogen becoming a viable energy source for airports? Read more: https://lnkd.in/eAxB7cwk #RIXRigaAirport #SustainableAviation #HydrogenTechnology