Rolls-Royce and TCS validate 100% hydrogen aviation propulsion

Rolls-Royce and Tata Consultancy Services (TCS) have achieved a milestone in sustainable aviation by successfully demonstrating a modern aero gas turbine operating on 100 percent hydrogen. The engine completed a full simulated flight cycle, including take-off, cruise, and landing, marking an industry first for this type of technology.

The hydrogen propulsion programme, originally launched in 2022 by Rolls-Royce and easyJet, saw TCS join in 2024 to provide engineering and digital expertise. TCS supported the project through fuel system and engine controls integration, hydrogen combustion analysis, data analytics, and detailed design.

This demonstration validates critical technologies across combustion, fuel systems, and engine controls. The insights gained from how hydrogen behaves in a modern turbine are expected to support future propulsion innovations, such as the UltraFan engine.