2025 ASEE Annual Conference & Exposition

The aviation industry is transitioning toward sustainable energy sources, with hydrogen emerging as a viable alternative to conventional fuels. As advancements in hydrogen propulsion, safety, and infrastructure accelerate, aviation education must evolve to equip future professionals with the necessary competencies to operate and maintain hydrogen-powered aircraft. However, current aviation curricula predominantly focus on conventional propulsion systems and lack structured training on hydrogen-specific technologies. This paper presents a literature-based analysis of the critical skills required for hydrogen-powered aviation, focusing on three key areas: technical skills, safety and risk management, and environmental sustainability.
The study highlights key hydrogen specific challenges including its unique storage requirements, combustion properties, and safety risks. It identifies gaps in current curricula, emphasizing the need for specialized coursework on hydrogen propulsion, cryogenic fuel storage, and regulatory compliance. Additionally, it examines how these competencies align with accreditation standards such as ABET, ICAO, and FAA guidelines to ensure students receive structured training that meets industry expectations.
The findings suggest that a comprehensive overhaul of aviation education is necessary to prepare future professionals for the hydrogen era. Universities may choose to introduce interdisciplinary programs that combine engineering principles, environmental science, and safety management to bridge existing knowledge gaps. Industry-academic collaborations, including research initiatives and internship programs with leading aerospace manufacturers and hydrogen energy firms, will play a crucial role in developing hands-on expertise.
By addressing these gaps for hydrogen-related education, this paper provides a roadmap for integrating hydrogen technologies into aviation curricula. The recommendations presented aim to ensure that graduates are well-equipped to contribute to the aviation industry’s shift toward cleaner, more sustainable energy solutions.