Flying internationally at no cost to the environment could become a reality for consumers as early as 2024.

Rotterdam’s The Hague Airport is developing plans to launch zero-emission commercial flights, using a 19-seater hydrogen-electric aircraft.

The plan for the proposed flights would take passengers between London and Rotterdam, and would start in just three years. The aircraft itself, which is powered entirely by hydrogen fuel, is currently in development by eco-aircraft company ZeroAvia.

ZeroAvia’s research and development efforts have been focussed on creating hydrogen-electric powered motors with waste products at manageable levels. Their new powertrain system emits water vapour as its sole waste product, allowing the aircraft to operate sustainably in accordance with net zero policies.

Sergey Kiselev, Head of Europe, at ZeroAvia, said: “This deal means that, in just three years’ time, you should be able to board a flight and make the hour journey between the UK and the Netherlands without worrying about the impact on the climate.”

“Working with partners like Royal Schiphol Group, we are making true zero emission flights a reality for passengers in the first half of this decade.”

Ron Louwerse, CEO, of Rotterdam the Hague Airport, said: “Boarding a zero-emission flight from Rotterdam to London is only the beginning of green aviation, and that will only be made possible by pioneering and promoting innovation in the sector.

“With the Netherlands as the testing ground for aviation, we strengthen our competitive position, knowledge base and business climate.”

As part of the development, the Royal Schipol Group will work with ZeroAvia to optimise hydrogen refuelling operations and supply.

It is hoped this will make hydrogen-electric aviation a more attractive prospect going forward, and contribute towards establishing a regulatory framework for future efforts in hydrogen powered commercial flight.