Tests validate that 100% hydrogen propulsion can power an aeroplane engine
First announced by Rolls-Royce and easyJet in 2022, TCS joined the programme in 2024, bringing its engineering and technology capabilities in the areas of development, testing and validation. Together, TCS and Rolls-Royce have, in an industry first, demonstrated the successful operation of a modern aero gas turbine across a fully simulated flight cycle using 100% hydrogen.
The test is the culmination of a four-year programme to prove hydrogen’s potential as a future aviation fuel. Operated using 100% hydrogen, the modified engine successfully completed a flight cycle demonstration, including take-off, cruise and landing.
Engineering expertise
The tests, validated critical hydrogen propulsion technologies across combustion, fuel systems, and engine controls. As Rolls-Royce’s engineering partner, TCS provided engineering expertise that helped fast track the development, testing and successful delivery of the hydrogen propulsion programme.
TCS supported Rolls-Royce on critical areas including fuel system and engine controls integration, hydrogen combustion analysis, test preparation, validation, data analytics, risk management, and detailed design.
Carefully staged testing approach
“Through a rigorous and carefully staged testing approach, we have gained valuable insights into how 100% hydrogen behaves in a modern aero gas turbine across a full flight cycle while validating critical combustion, fuel and control system technologies,” stated Adam Newman, Chief Engineer, Hydrogen Demonstrator Programme, Rolls-Royce,
“At TCS, we are proud to support Rolls-Royce in accelerating hydrogen propulsion through integrated engineering, systems, and software expertise. This achievement marks a significant step forward—demonstrating not just the viability of hydrogen, but the industry’s readiness to translate ambition into execution,” added Anupam Singhal, President–Manufacturing, Tata Consultancy Services.
