Catapult boss tasked with zero-emission flight role

Rachel Gardner-Poole to chair steering group on technology and regulation of electric and hydrogen-powered planes

Catapult centre executive Rachel Gardner-Poole is to lead a steering group tasked with decarbonising the aviation sector and advancing technology including electric and hydrogen-powered planes.

The UK’s aviation sector makes up about 8 per cent of the country’s greenhouse gas emissions, meaning the government must bring in new technologies if it is to hit its target to make the country net zero by 2050. Research on the subject is garnering increasing funding and focus from ministers.