Conceptual Design and Validation of a Hydrogen Training Airplane

This study presents the conceptual design and stability assessment of an ultralight hydrogen-electric training aircraft. Building on a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) approach, the analysis first examines design requirements and trends in existing two-seat trainers. A conceptual design process is then applied, with adaptations for the integration of a hydrogen propulsion system comprising a fuel cell stack, electric motor, battery, and high-pressure hydrogen storage. Four alternative configurations for propulsion system placement were proposed and compared; the integrated nose-mounted layout was identified as the most promising. Stability and controllability analyses demonstrated that, despite relatively high moments of inertia and sensitivity in control forces, the aircraft remains stable and controllable across the flight envelope. The results confirm the technical feasibility of hydrogen propulsion integration in the ultralight training segment, while also highlighting the need for further aerodynamic validation, prototype testing, and regulatory development to support the future certification of hydrogen-powered aircraft.