Airbus Initiates Research Project on Greenhouse Gas Emissions from Non-CO2 Sources in Collaboration with Canadian Aviation Industry Partners
In a significant move towards sustainable aviation, Airbus has announced the launch of the CRYSTAL project in collaboration with Canadian aerospace academic and research organizations. The project aims to measure and analyze non-CO2 emissions from different jet fuels, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
The CRYSTAL project is one of the key projects under Espace Aero, the first official Quebec aerospace innovation zone project this year. The A220, the only Airbus commercial aircraft programme to be piloted outside of Europe, is part of this initiative.
The methodology involves using experimental test campaigns and advanced measurement techniques to capture detailed emission profiles when various jet fuels are used. This includes collaboration with academic and research institutions in Canada, such as Polytechnique Montréal, École de technologie supérieure (ÉTS), and FSM Management Group.
The project will conduct controlled engine tests to measure non-CO2 gases and particulates emitted during combustion. By comparing emissions from conventional jet fuel versus sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), the project aims to assess differential impacts and inform improved environmental assessments.
Airbus' commitment to reducing non-CO2 emissions is evident in their ongoing research. The company has been present in Canada for over 40 years, with a significant presence, employing over 4,500 people at ten sites and offices.
The CRYSTAL project includes a ground and flight test campaign at Airbus' Mirabel site in Canada, the A220 Programme headquarters. Both ground and flight tests will be operating on Jet A-1 and 100% Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) to study the effects on emissions and contrail properties, and the associated climate impacts.
Airbus and its partners are in discussion with government programmes including Canada's Initiative for Sustainable Aviation Technology (INSAT) and Consortium for Research and Innovation in Aerospace in Québec (CRIAQ) to support the project.
The ground tests are planned to happen as of Q3 2025, and the flight tests in 2027. The data generated will be used by the scientific community to improve contrail models and identify engine technology and fuels that could minimise the climate impact from contrails.
Canada contributes approximately 23,000 indirect jobs and generates more than C$ 2 billion in revenues annually for over 850 Canadian companies due to Airbus. The YMX International Aerocity of Mirabel airport managed by ADM (Aéroports de Montréal) supports this collaboration.
The Airbus CRYSTAL project is similar to VOLCAN and ECLIF3, initiatives by Airbus involving the A350 Family aircraft. This project underscores Airbus' dedication to advancing sustainable aviation through precise emissions characterization and innovation in fuel use. By addressing all greenhouse gases and pollutants, Airbus aims to reduce aviation’s climate footprint effectively.
[1] For more detailed objectives and exact methodology specifics, please refer to Airbus' public statements about emissions research collaborations with Canadian organizations.
The CRYSTAL project, an initiative by Airbus, collaborates with Canadian academic and research organizations to analyze non-CO2 emissions from various jet fuels, including sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Airbus is committed to reducing these emissions by using technology such as experimental test campaigns and advanced measurement techniques to assess the climate impact from contrails.
