We still don’t have a power-to-weight-ratio solution that makes electric long-distance flight practical. Although passenger aircraft manufacturer Airbus is experimenting with fuel cell technology. This begs the question, will we finally fly with electric aircraft that way?
Are Batteries or Fuel Cells Better For Aircraft?
The main difference between batteries and fuel cells is how they provide electricity:
- A battery stores energy inside its cells and releases it when it connects to a circuit. Once the stored energy is used up, then the battery must be recharged or replaced.
- A fuel cell does not store energy. Instead, it produces electricity continuously from an external fuel supply, usually hydrogen, and oxygen from the air.
Two Potential Ways To Power Electric Aircraft
We first need to explore the distinction between fuel cells and batteries, to know whether either could finally fly with electric aircraft some day.
HOW BATTERIES COULD POWER AIRCRAFT
Batteries contain two electrodes, and an electrolyte between them. Chemical reactions inside the battery release electrons, creating an electric current. Rechargeable batteries reverse these reactions when we connect them to a charger.
HOW FUEL CELLS COULD POWER FLIGHT
Fuel cells also use electrodes and an electrolyte, but they convert the chemical energy in hydrogen directly into electricity. This process continues for as long as fuel cells have a supply of hydrogen.
Which Technology Is The Better Of The Two?
Neither technology is universally better. Batteries are ideal for storing energy, while fuel cells excel at producing electricity continuously from a steady fuel supply. Let’s find out why Airbus might have finally decided to fly with electric aircraft.
Airbus Investigates Hydrogen Fuel Cell Aircraft
Passenger aircraft manufacturer, Airbus, announced its intention on July 7, 2026, to develop a fully electric hydrogen fuel cell engine. It is collaborating with an aero-engine specialist in a joint venture.
“Our planned joint venture is the next logical step in our shared vision of a hydrogen-based propulsion concept for aviation,” says Bruno Fichefeux, Airbus Head of Future Programs.
Where To From Here With Aircraft Fuel Cells?
It is early days yet. Our minds are open regarding whether we might finally fly with electric aircraft using fuel cells or batteries first. One thing is for certain though. The field is wide open and the competition is on!
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