Aircraft Fuel Cells Market to Reach $4.7bn by 2030 with 16.4% CAGR

The global aircraft fuel cells market is projected to reach $4.7 billion by 2030, growing at a CAGR of 16.4%. The market is driven by the aviation sector's transition to sustainable technologies and tightening emission regulations. Hydrogen fuel cells are a key solution, offering clean energy and reduced reliance on fossil fuels. The 0-100 kW power range segment dominates the market, and key players like ZeroAvia and Airbus are leading the innovation. North America is the leading global market for aircraft fuel cells, with a share of 39.8% in 2024.

The global aircraft fuel cells market is projected to reach $4.7 billion by 2030, growing at a robust Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 16.4% [1]. This significant growth is driven by the aviation sector's transition to sustainable technologies and tightening emission regulations. Hydrogen fuel cells, a key solution, offer clean energy and reduced reliance on fossil fuels, making them a pivotal component in the aviation industry's push towards sustainability.

The 0-100 kW power range segment dominates the market, accounting for 55.5% of the global demand in 2024. This segment is highly compatible with smaller aircraft, unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), and electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which are increasingly being used in urban air mobility (UAM) and air taxis. Key players like ZeroAvia and Airbus are leading the innovation in this space, with ZeroAvia's hydrogen-electric propulsion systems and Airbus' ZEROe program being notable examples [1].

North America is the leading global market for aircraft fuel cells, with a share of 39.8% in 2024. This region is home to an advanced aerospace ecosystem and policies, such as the U.S. Inflation Reduction Act (2022), which provide tax credits and grants for clean energy technologies, boosting the adoption of aircraft fuel cells. The presence of major manufacturers like Boeing is also driving demand for fuel cells in both commercial and military applications [1].

Europe is slated to register the fastest 2024-2030 CAGR of 26.3%, fueled by aggressive decarbonization goals and stringent emissions standards. The European Union's Fit for 55 and net-zero aviation targets by 2050 are boosting the adoption of fuel cells, with further sustenance provided by the Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (FCH JU). The region is also focusing on Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) for propulsion and auxiliary power units (APUs) [1].

Hydrogen is by far the most popular fuel used in aircraft fuel cells, with a share estimated at 60.1% in 2024. Its high energy density and zero-carbon emissions make it highly suited for aviation applications. While biofuels are also gaining traction, with a CAGR of 20% over 2024-2030, they are currently less dominant due to production challenges and infrastructure limitations [1].

Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) dominate the market by technology, commanding an estimated 2024 share of 62.2%. Their high power density, low operating temperature, and rapid startup times make them ideal for a range of aircraft applications. However, Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) are expected to clock the fastest CAGR of 21.7% during 2024-2030, driven by their high efficiency and fuel flexibility [1].

The leading application for aircraft fuel cells is Auxiliary Power Units (APUs), estimated to hold a share of 48.8% in 2024. These units provide electrical power during ground operations, significantly reducing emissions and noise. The fastest CAGR of 28.4% between 2024 and 2030 is anticipated to be witnessed by Main Propulsion Systems, driven by the aviation industry's commitment to net-zero emissions by 2050 [1].

References:
[1] https://finance.yahoo.com/news/aircraft-fuel-cells-global-market-080400525.html