Japan Tests World’s First Hydrogen-Powered Passenger Plane

Japan has successfully conducted the first test flight of a hydrogen-powered passenger aircraft, marking a major milestone in eco-friendly aviation. The prototype, developed by a government-backed aerospace consortium, flew for 40 minutes over the skies of Nagoya.

Hydrogen fuel emits only water vapour, making it a cleaner alternative to conventional jet fuel. Japan hopes to commercialize hydrogen-powered short-haul flights by 2030, in a bid to meet its net-zero emission goals.

The technology is drawing international attention, including from Indian aviation authorities and startups in Bengaluru and Hyderabad, which are exploring green fuel alternatives for domestic air routes.

By Mohini