Air New Zealand, Wellington Airport, Toyota New Zealand and Hiringa Energy have joined forces to trial using H₂ to charge Air New Zealand's electric tugs and service vehicles over the next few weeks at Wellington Airport. Air New Zealand Senior Sustainability Manager, Jacob Snelgrove says the airline wants to pioneer the commercial deployment of green H₂-powered aircraft in New Zealand.

"Green H₂ is starting to be used around the world as a low-emission fuel for buses, trucks, trains, and boats. Aircraft are the logical next step and successful test flights are already underway overseas. The biggest challenge here in New Zealand, is setting up the supply, transport and infrastructure to support fueling the aircraft. This trial is an important first step to enable the development of that system."

"This is the first-time H₂ has been used at an airport in New Zealand and is an important step on the long-term journey to decarbonize aviation," said Wellington Airport chief executive Matt Clarke. "The trial will help us assess the viability of H₂ for charging and give us a good insight into the operational challenges and opportunities."

The trial will be conducted using a H₂ fuel cell provided by Toyota New Zealand. The fuel cell uses H₂ to generate electricity, with supply coordinated by Hiringa Energy, a New Zealand-based clean energy company.

"It's a privilege to be supporting Air New Zealand and Wellington Airport in demonstrating the safe use of H₂ for use in aviation, said Hiringa Energy Chief Executive Officer, Andrew Clennett.

"Green H₂ has a significant role to play in decarbonizing Aotearoa, and this program is helping everyone to better understand the benefits of introducing H₂ to airport operations as we prepare for H₂-powered aircraft in the future."

Toyota New Zealand Chief Executive, Neeraj Lala says the firm's introduction of its H₂ fuel cell generator at Wellington Airport directly aligns with its strategy.

"We are passionate about advancing the H₂ economy in New Zealand by introducing innovative new technology that supports our decarbonization ambition."

"By showcasing innovative solutions like the fuel cell generator in practical applications such as aviation, we can stimulate demand and demonstrate the viability and benefits of H₂ technology, ultimately paving the way for broader adoption and investment in H₂ across various sectors of the New Zealand economy."

"Our Toyota Fuel Cell Generators will now provide companies serious about climate with a genuine clean energy alternative," said Neeraj.

The trial begins today and will run until 15 March.