Japan is set to unveil plans for a next-generation passenger jet following a government committee meeting on Wednesday, marking a fresh attempt after the previous struggling endeavor was abandoned a year ago. The public-private project, anticipated to utilize hydrogen fuel to reduce emissions, is estimated to cost around five trillion yen ($33 billion), as reported by Japanese media, citing anonymous sources.
An official announcement is expected later today following a closed-door session involving politicians, experts, and business leaders to deliberate on a new aviation industry strategy. Kazuchika Iwata, the state minister for economy, trade, and industry, emphasized the necessity for the Japanese aircraft industry to expand beyond its current role as a parts supplier. He highlighted the importance of seizing a leading position in carbon-neutral technologies, particularly hydrogen, and collaborating with global partners to develop a narrow-body plane.
Reports suggest that the target timeline for the project aims to have the plane ready by 2035. This renewed effort comes after Mitsubishi Heavy Industries terminated its ambitious attempt in February 2023 to develop a twin-engine plane for short-to-medium haul flights, which faced technical issues and delivery delays over a decade.
Meanwhile, China recently showcased its first domestically produced passenger jet in Singapore, aiming to challenge Airbus and Boeing’s dominance with its single-aisle model. Japan’s last venture into commercial airliners dates back to 1962 with the YS-11 turboprop, which was discontinued approximately ten years later.
The potential use of hydrogen fuel is particularly appealing to Japan as it pursues carbon neutrality by 2050, given that it emits no carbon dioxide when burned. However, environmental advocates remain cautious about its adoption due to concerns regarding the reliability of the supply chain for “green” hydrogen produced from renewable sources. Other types of hydrogen fuel, such as “gray” hydrogen derived from fossil fuels with high carbon emissions and “blue” hydrogen with emissions capture and storage, also raise environmental considerations.
