Collaborative future in aviation - Fokker Next Gen and airBaltic sign MoU

Fokker Next Gen and airBaltic signed a MoU that sets the stage for a collaborative future in aviation.This memorandum will leverage the insights of airBaltic to contribute to the development of the Fokker Next Gen liquid hydrogen combustion powered commercial aircraft. From airBaltic perspective, this is an opportunity to investigate hydrogen aircraft fit for the airline' routes. This collaboration is poised to leverage the strengths of both companies and explore the vast potential of liquid hydrogen powered commercial aircraft for the aviation sector. 

Martin Gauss, President and CEO of airBaltic commented:  "airBaltic is glad to see such innovative developments being worked on in the Baltic region. We are a proud operator of one of the youngest aircraft fleets in Europe and are committed to the industry-wide decarbonization initiatives. However, we also do understand that the aviation industry needs a joint effort in new technology developments in order to achieve its long-term commitments.We are glad to sign this MoU and collaborate with Fokker Next Gen by sharing our insights and expertise in their work to develop a hydrogen-powered aircraft. We see this as an important step for the future of the aviation."

Juriaan Kellermann, CEO of Fokker Next Gen, said: “airBaltic’s engagement with hydrogen-powered aircraft is crucial. Our joint effort not only propels forward innovative aircraft design, informed by direct user feedback, but also boosts the Dutch and Latvian economies. This collaboration underscores our shared commitment to pioneering the future of aviation.”

Fokker Next Gen, with its expertise in aircraft design, certification, and assembly, is developing a liquid hydrogen fueled aircraft that aims to revolutionize the industry. The aircraft will be designed with a dual fuel tank system so that it can also fly on sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) or kerosene when liquid hydrogen is not available. 

airBaltic is committed to reach carbon neutrality by 2050, in line with the aviation industry and EU commitments. To reach that in the long run, airBaltic is dedicated to continue advancing operational excellence, exploring innovative solutions – for example, through cooperations such as this – and implementing industry-wide practices.