Gizmag Journal said, Airbus is implementing a project to examine the possibility of using hydrogen fuel cells on commercial aircrafts, not only does it provide energy for a jet engine, but it also replaces the APU auxiliary power units.

APU located in the tail section of the fuselage, gas turbine engine generates electricity to provide aircraft preparing to take on, it also helps to regulate the temperature and start the engine.

Improved APU has reduced noise, harmful emissions for the environment. Currently, Airbus is collaborating with South Africa’s National Aerospace Center to study operational capabilities of hydrogen fuel cells replacing the common APU.

In addition to reducing emissions and noise on the ground, the use of fuel cells will also provide many other benefits. Being lighter than an APU, and with the potential replacement of the heavy battery pack will reduce the aircraft's weight. Thus, the amount of fuel burned and emissions produced by aircraft will be greatly reduced. The fuel cells don’t move as APUs, so they are more durable and easier to maintain.