BPCL Signs Quadripartite MoU for India’s First Hydrogen-Powered VTOL Ecosystem!

Bharat Petroleum Corporation (BPCL) has signed a landmark quadripartite memorandum of understanding (MoU) with BluJ Aerospace, the Agency for New and Renewable Energy Research and Technology (ANERT), and Cochin International Airport (CIAL) to create India’s first hydrogen-powered vertical take-off and landing (VTOL) aircraft ecosystem. This collaboration is a major step toward revolutionizing air travel in India, with a focus on reducing emissions and improving efficiency in urban and regional aviation.

This initiative aligns with India’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2070. By utilizing hydrogen fuel cell technology, the project aims to significantly reduce noise pollution and carbon emissions while offering a more sustainable mode of transportation for the future. The collaboration will play a key role in transforming the aviation landscape by introducing cleaner, quieter, and more energy-efficient VTOL aircraft into Indian skies.

As part of the agreement, BPCL will be responsible for developing hydrogen refuelling infrastructure for BluJ Aerospace’s VTOL aircraft. The company plans to set up hydrogen refuelling stations (HRS) in Kochi and Trivandrum to support the transition to hydrogen-powered aviation. Additionally, BPCL will fund the creation of a high-power density domestic proton exchange membrane (PEM) hydrogen fuel cell, which is essential for enabling vertical take-offs of the aircraft.

This partnership underscores the growing importance of sustainable aviation technologies and positions India at the forefront of the global shift toward green air travel solutions.