More/All electric aircraft based on fuel cell energy system: the ENFICA-FC experience

Environmental sustainability should gain a significant role as one of the main drivers in the design of new generation of transport civil aircrafts in order to obtain more/all electric aircrafts powered by greener energy sources as hydrogen fuel cell systems. In this framework, the European Commission has selected ENFICA-FC (ENvironmentally Friendly Inter City Aircraft powered by Fuel Cells), as one of the co-founded projects in the Aeronautics and Space 6th Framework Programme. The goals of the project were the following: 1) A feasibility study in order to provide a preliminary definition of new and innovative power systems based on different fuel cell technologies; 2) The conversion of a modern and conventional two-seat aircraft into an all-electric airplane entirely powered by fuel cell. A feasibility study was carried out to provide a preliminary definition of systems (APU, primary electrical generation supply, emergency electrical power supply, landing gear, de-icing system, etc) in which fuel cells (PEM or SOFC) can be exploited. The feasibility study took into account the both present technologies and expected improvements of future generation of fuel-cell systems and thereby showed the differences in aircraft performances that could arise between conventional and more/all electric aircraft for different levels of technology development. In addition, the feasibility of an all-electric propulsion inter-city aircraft (10-15 seat), completely powered by fuel cells, was studied in order to assess the impact that could have a more silent and less polluting aircraft. The second part of the paper deals with the setting up and test flights of a fuel cell general aviation aircraft fuelled by hydrogen. The all-electrical power system was successfully tested during the experimental flights. A new speed world record of 135 km/h and an endurance of 39 min. were established during several flights conducted for the FAI Sporting Code Category C (airplane). 2.5 hours of effective flight were obtained during these 6 tests for a total path of 237 km. The positive handling qualities and satisfactory engine performances of these six flight tests have led the team to consider these successful flights as a good starting point for further long endurance high speed flights.