Liquid hydrogen will be used at the Wellington Aerodrome and Recreational Park, following approval by Dubbo Regional Council.
The approval will allow AMSL Aero to continue testing its Vertiia test vehicle, supporting the development of hydrogen-powered aircraft designed to deliver long-range, zero emission flight
AMSL Aero has been undertaking on-the-ground testing at the Wellington Aerodrome of their hydrogen-electric vertical take-off and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, which has been designed to take off like a helicopter and transition to efficient wing-borne flight.
Dubbo Regional Council Manager Airport Strategy and Operation Matthew Linsley-Noakes said the decision shows Council is committed to supporting innovation and attracting emerging technologies to the region.
"The Dubbo region is embracing its status as an outdoor test and evaluation hub for companies such as AMSL Aero and playing an important role in advancing our aviation industry.
"Supporting the next phase of hydrogen aviation testing at Wellington Aerodrome shows our commitment to regional innovation and to creating opportunities for high-tech industries," Mr Linsley-Noakes said.
AMSL Aero CEO Dr Adriano Di Pietro said the decision by Council will allow them to conduct further on-the-ground testing and operational evaluations associated with liquid hydrogen fuel systems.
"The ongoing partnership between Dubbo Regional Council and AMSL Aero highlights the role regional aerodromes can play in supporting the development of next-generation aviation technologies.
"Projects like this demonstrate how regional infrastructure can support cutting-edge research and development while bringing new opportunities, investment and highly skilled jobs to regional communities," Dr Di Pietro said.
This project received funding from the Australian Renewable Energy Agency (ARENA) as part of ARENA's Advancing Renewables Program
Wellington Aerodrome and Recreational Park is a hub for aerospace testing, training and aviation activities, supporting both recreational aviation and emerging aviation technologies.
