Miftakhov said , “ The importance of the larger engine , as we redesign it , expands the applicability to regional jets . The Mitsubishi will be another program . The Q400 is important for regional jet applications .”
One big factor that will change with the hydrogen-electric system is refueling . The fuel times will significantly decrease from fossil fuels to hydrogen refueling . For smaller aircraft today , “ a truck shows up and refuels the smaller aircraft ,” Miftakhov said . They have a partnership with Shell for the new equipment . They hope to be able to refuel larger planes at the gates with the new fueling system , which will “ be invisible ” to the guests on the flight . However , the fuel will be made on-site at the airports .
Specifications of the Q400 ( per Alaska Airlines )
Crew : 2 Pilots , 2 Flight Attendant Range : 1,114 nm Length : 107 ft , 9 in ( 32.9 m ) Coach seats : 76 Typical Cruise Speed : 400 mph ( 644 km / h ) Wingspan : 93 ft , 3 in ( 28.4 m )
Max . Cruising Altitude : 25,000 ft ( 7,620 m )
As large-scale fuel users , airports must set up fuel infrastructure and fuel delivery logistics to the location . In the U . S ., there are 140,000-plus gas stations across the country . The total number of commercial airports is about 5,000-plus , with about 20,000 commercial and private airports . On-site production removes the logistics of moving fuel around , saving tremendous costs .
Miftakhov said he could leverage his experience in understanding fuel systems and car charging stations , as he explained the economics of transforming from jet fuel to hydrogen fuel . “ For small aircraft , launching in 2025 , we will break even .” But the cost will decrease as the aircraft are rolled out en masse with the new fuel systems . The electricity costs and production will decrease , ultimately saving airlines money .
30 NORTHWEST AEROSPACE NEWS