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China Completes Hydrogen-Powered Flight Test

April 4, 2026

2 min read

Key Takeaways

AECC completes hydrogen-powered flight test.
Test used AEP100 powertrain on W5000 aircraft.
Flight reached 220 km/h and lasted 16 minutes.
AEP100 is first megawatt-class turboprop engine powered by liquid hydrogen.

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Strategic Implications

This achievement may signal China's growing presence in hydrogen propulsion technology, which could have significant implications for the global aviation industry. The use of liquid hydrogen suggests a focus on efficient fuel storage and transportation, which may benefit regional cargo transportation and other applications.

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What Happened

Aero Engine Corporation Achieves Milestone In Liquid Hydrogen Propulsion

Aero Engine Corporation of China (AECC) has successfully completed a hydrogen-powered flight test, marking a significant milestone in the development of liquid hydrogen propulsion technology. The test, which took place on April 4, 2026, involved the hydrogen-powered version of AECC’s AEP100 powertrain mounted on a W5000 unmanned turboprop aircraft. The aircraft flew a 36-kilometre circuit, reaching a speed of 220 km/h and lasting 16 minutes. According to AECC, the AEP100 is the first megawatt-class turboprop engine powered by liquid hydrogen. This development was first reported by AeroTime.

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