- The ALRIGH2T joint session brought together 40 experts to exchange ideas and explore the future of hydrogen-powered aviation.
Hydrogen innovation took centre stage in Capri, Italy, as the European Fuel Cells and Hydrogen – Piero Lunghi Conference (EFCH2) marked its 11th edition from 17 to 19 September 2025. Bringing together more than 250 participants from 23 countries and representatives of over 90 institutions—including universities, research centres, companies, and laboratories—the event featured 150 oral presentations and 50 scientific posters, reaffirming its status as one of the most influential international forums in the hydrogen research sector.
“This year’s edition confirmed EFCH2 as a vibrant platform for sharing ideas, building networks and accelerating the transition towards a sustainable hydrogen ecosystem”, noted Viviana Cigolotti, Chair of the conference and Coordinator of the ALRIGH2T project.
Spotlight on Hydrogen-Powered Aviation
The scientific programme featured a wide range of parallel sessions exploring innovative solutions and cutting-edge research. One of the highlights was the joint session organised by ALRIGH2T, GOLIAT, and HASTA projects, entitled “Hydrogen Powered Aviation: Ongoing Projects and Technological Pathways”. The session drew around 40 participants and fostered lively debate, reflecting the growing momentum behind hydrogen-powered aviation.
Representing ALRIGH2T, Andrea Altomonte (ATENA Scarl) presented “Hydrogen Integration in Commercial Aviation: Technical and Operational Analysis at Malpensa Airport”. The presentation outlined the project’s objectives, methodology, and initial results of a study on hydrogen integration at Milano Malpensa Airport, one of Europe’s busiest hubs.
Andrea Altomonte presenting the key aspects about the study carried out at Milano Malpensa.
A central feature of this research was the development of a dedicated simulation tool to estimate liquid hydrogen requirements across different flight categories, based on real airport traffic data. Using a short-haul route as a case study, the model evaluated key aspects such as operational feasibility and hydrogen demand, shedding light on both the opportunities and challenges of introducing hydrogen into real-world aviation settings.
As aviation is among the hardest sectors to decarbonise, the ALRIGH2T session was particularly significant. By pioneering liquid hydrogen refuelling solutions, the project not only addresses airport logistics but also lays the groundwork for safer, faster, and more sustainable air transport.
Beyond the session, the ALRIGH2T project was also featured at a dedicated stand together with the ACHIEVE and H2IF projects, providing a hub for exchanges among researchers from across Europe.
All set up at the ALRIGH2T, ACHIEVE and H2IF projects joint stand.
The programme also included a poster exhibition organised under the H2Excellence project, which awarded two Excellence Best Thesis Awards. Covering areas such as hydrogen production, storage and distribution, fuel cell technologies, applications, and policy frameworks, the exhibition highlighted the diversity and quality of research driving Europe’s hydrogen transition forward.
About the EFCH2 Conference
Launched in 2005, the European Fuel Cells and Hydrogen – Piero Lunghi Conference is a biennial event organised by ENEA, in collaboration with ATENA Scarl, the University of California – Irvine, and the University of Naples “Parthenope”. Throughout its history, it has established itself as a key forum for exploring the international landscape of hydrogen and fuel cell technologies, offering sessions that cover a wide spectrum of issues – from materials innovation and advanced manufacturing to system integration, safety, market models, and sustainability.
Underscoring the relevance of these discussions, Gilberto Pichetto Fratin, Italian Minister of Environment and Energy Transition, highlighted in his speech the pivotal role of hydrogen in climate action. He emphasised that “Hydrogen is a cornerstone of the energy transition at both European and global levels. Italy has already defined its strategy, the sector is growing, and a solid market is needed to reach decarbonisation targets.”
The conference serves as a collaborative platform for experts, industry leaders, and policymakers to share knowledge, inspire innovation, and strengthen cooperation at both national and European levels.
Looking ahead
The decarbonisation of aviation remains a central objective within global climate policies. Among the alternative energy carriers under evaluation, liquid hydrogen is emerging as a promising solution for achieving zero-emission flight, particularly in short and medium-haul operations.
With its pioneering work in hydrogen refuelling solutions, ALRIGH2T is contributing to this transformation, ensuring that the aviation sector can play its part in Europe’s broader clean energy transition.
The EFCH2 Conference will return in 2027, continuing to provide an essential stage for dialogue, cooperation, and innovation in hydrogen and fuel cell technologies.
