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Circular Airports in Oslo: Turning Barriers into Breakthroughs

What if airports could operate with a fraction of today’s environmental impact—while becoming smarter, more efficient, and easier to manage? That vision is at the heart of the Circular Airports Workshop and the Circularity Tour at Oslo Airport, held on Wednesday, 26 November. The event was part of the second TULIPS Progress event and focused on transforming barriers into breakthroughs for a more circular future in aviation.

TULIPS Progress Event in Oslo: Spotlight on Innovation and Sustainability

From 24 to 26 November, TULIPS partner Avinor hosted the second TULIPS Progress Event in Oslo. This edition focused on projects that had not yet taken centre stage during the previous event in Torino – from digital solutions for international greener travel and circularity to modular charging and Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). The programme combined the Progress Event with deep-dive sessions led by Work Package (WP) leads, as well as the annual General Assembly and External Advisory Board meeting. The result? A wealth of knowledge, input, and inspiration.

Rotterdam The Hague Airport Opens Liquid Hydrogen Refuelling Station for Aviation

On 24 November, Rotterdam The Hague Airport (RTHA) reached an important milestone: Robert Simons, Deputy Mayor of Rotterdam, officially opened a liquid hydrogen refuelling station at the airport. This facility, developed within the European TULIPS project, marks valuable progress towards sustainable aviation and reducing CO₂ emissions. The new facility is primarily designed for research purposes. It enables the dispensing of liquid hydrogen for research and development aircraft and drones.

Hydrogen Ground Support Equipment (GSE) in Focus at IGHC 2025

At the IATA Ground Handling Conference (IGHC2025) from 13-15 May, TULIPS shared its latest insights into the potential of hydrogen-powered ground support equipment (GSE) at airports. In a dedicated session, experts from Fraunhofer IML, Royal Schiphol Group, and TLD explored both the opportunities and challenges of integrating hydrogen into airport ground operations.

Pilot with Hydrogen-powered Vehicles in Daily Operations: a First at Schiphol

Schiphol launches a pilot involving a specially developed aircraft tow vehicle and a prototype of a Toyota pick-up truck with an electric engine powered by hydrogen. Schiphol also has its own temporary hydrogen refueling station to supply these vehicles with hydrogen. The tow truck and refueling station are part of the EU funded TULIPS programme. With this pilot, the airport is taking an important step towards emission-free ground operations by 2030.

TULIPS Hydrogen Event at Schiphol: A Look at the Future of Ground Handling

On Monday 8 September, TULIPS offered an exclusive first look at two groundbreaking innovations now in active use at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol: the hydrogen-electric tow truck and the hydrogen refuelling station, both located on the J-platform. This marks a major milestone for the Workpackage 4 team, who have worked tirelessly over the past years to bring these innovations to life. It’s also a significant step towards zero-emission ground handling and cleaner air on the apron.

Maiden flight of a drone on liquid hydrogen, a Dutch first

On 28 August the HYDRA II, an innovative hydrogen-powered drone of Royal NLR, has made its first successful flights using liquid hydrogen as a fuel carrier. This marks an important step towards developing more sustainable aviation by making hydrogen technology suitable for commercial applications. The next step for the HYDRA II will be the TULIPS demonstration at Rotterdam The Hague Airport, where HYDRA II will again take flight. The demo will then include refuelling.

‘Circularity in Airports’ Event; Collaboration and Knowledge Sharing is Key

On March 6th, Schiphol and TULIPS welcomed fourteen airports, airlines, and circular economy experts for a mini-conference on ‘Circularity in Airports’. This event focused on reducing and reusing cabin waste and waste streams from the terminal. Additionally, the reuse of construction materials was discussed. We need to move away from linear waste systems at airports, which cause more emissions.

CINEA annual review TULIPS group photo

CINEA’s Annual Review Visit to TULIPS: A Fruitful Exchange of Innovations and Insights

On the 4th and 5th of March, the TULIPS project at Schiphol had the pleasure of hosting CINEA for the annual project review. This visit was an excellent opportunity to showcase our progress, share valuable insights, and discuss future steps in our collaborative efforts towards zero waste and zero emission airports.

Torino Airport’s February Highlights: TULIPS’ Visibility and Policy Impact

February was a bustling month for Torino Airport, highlighting both Torino’s and TULIPS’ technical advancements. But more important was that the TULIPS initiative gained significant recognition at local and national policy levels through various events and conferences. We are espcially proud that our hydrogen GPU (hGPU) has officially been featured in the Italian Civil Aviation Authority (ENAC)’s national guidelines for hydrogen in airport logistics.

Circular Construction at Schiphol; Enabling Reuse with a Materials Marketplace

At Schiphol Airport, a new materials marketplace is transforming construction waste into valuable resources, promoting a circular economy and reducing CO2 emissions. Discover how EME, Heijmans and Schiphol are leading this innovative initiative.

TULIPS in 2024: A Landmark Year for Our Sustainability Roadmaps 2030+

In 2024, TULIPS achieved significant milestones. We strengthened industry connections, leveraged feedback from our first project review, and showcased our progress at 18 major events. Our Hydrogen GPU gained substantial interest, and we organized key events in Torino, advancing our clean energy transition efforts. Our highlights in one picture.

TULIPS takes the stage at Seas to Skies Conference

The five “EU Green Deal” projects for airports – STARGATE, OLGA and TULIPS – and ports – PIONEERS and MAGPIE – joined forces at the Seas to Skies Conference to exchange on results, innovations and challenges ahead. The crosslinks between initiatives underscore the potential for enhanced synergy, laying a promising foundation to scale solutions.

Three inspiring days in Turin with TULIPS

We had an incredible three days of meetings, sharing results, and learning from each other at Torino Airport and Politecnico di Torino. From 9 to 10 October, this was the venue for the TULIPS General Assembly, the TULIPS Progress Event on Accelerating Airports in the Clean Energy Transition and the 2nd Hydrogen Airports Conference.

H2-GPU at GSE Expo 2024: Insights from Dynell and ZEPP Solutions

TULIPS partners Dynell and ZEPP Solutions joined forces to showcase the world’s first operational H2-GPU at the GSE Expo 2024 in Lisbon, Portugal. An H2-GPU can provide energy for widebody aircraft and has other advantages compared to eGPUs. It can therefore be a viable alternative to fully comply with EU regulations by 2030.

camera's monitoring charging of the electric Pipistrel

Unattended charging of an electric aircraft

Charging an electric aircraft without physical supervision raises all kinds of questions. Technology can help to do it safely and efficiently. Rotterdam The Hague Airport and NLR demonstrated their smart solution for unattended charging during a special Demo Day op 17 September

TLD joins TULIPS to develop Hydrogen-Powered Tow Tractor

We are pleased to announce that TLD, a leading Ground Support Equipment supplier, is joining the TULIPS Consortium. In collaboration with Ballard, TLD works on developing a hydrogen-powered tow tractor. This project aims to reduce emissions on airside.

Hydrogen GPU supplies a KLM cityhopper with energy

Schiphol Tests World’s First Hydrogen Powered GPU

Schiphol is conducting tests with the first ever hydrogen GPU at the airport. The H2-GPU is a hydrogen-powered Ground Power Unit (GPU) that supplies stationary aircraft at the gate with electricity, which is used for lighting and power in the cockpit. Schiphol is the first airport in the world to have a working H2-GPU and to use it in its operations.

17 September Demo Day Unattended charging

Safely charge an electric aircraft without physical supervision? It’s possible according to TULIPS. During our special Demo Day at Rotterdam The Hague Airport we will share the first results of our solution. So make a note of September 17 in your calendar!

TULIPS innovations: Iron Flow Battery and H2-GPU

On June 25, we hosted a diverse group of sister airports and partners at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol. The occasion was a demonstration and explanation of two groundbreaking innovations that TULIPS has been developing since the programme’s inception: the Iron Flow Battery and the Hydrogen ground power unit (H2-GPU). The Iron Flow Battery is already operational, while the H2-GPU is scheduled for upcoming tests.

Super battery being tested at Schiphol; a world first at the airport

In a world exclusive, Schiphol is taking a major step toward energy storage and the further electrification of ground equipment with the arrival of an Iron Flow Battery at the airport. The large battery, recently installed on the A/B apron, offers a reliable power supply for the charging of electrical equipment and thus relieves pressure on the grid. The test with the innovative battery is part of the TULIPS programme.

Why TULIPS will test a hydrogen Ground Power Unit

Starting in June TULIPS will be testing a hydrogen Ground Power Unit in airside operations. Switching to an H2-GPU could drastically cut emissions. But there are more reasons why an H2-GPU is an interesting development for airports. Let’s dive into this innovation.

Transforming waste management methods; a Dutch airport’s journey toward a circular economy

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol developed the Baseline Circular Airports Method (BCAM) to assess and improve waste management practices. BCAM systematically analyses resource streams, relevant stakeholders, treatment processes and environmental impact. Read how BCAM can help your airport becoming circular.

TULIPS Progress Event: Accelerating Airports in the Clean Energy Transition

Airports find themselves in the midst of a vital and complex shift; the clean energy transition. TULIPS is testing and validating several concepts and technologies. At the TULIPS Progress event on 10 October we will share our preliminary results. Join us onsite or online!

RTHA NLR hydrogen installation

RTHA advances liquid hydrogen storage for sustainable aviation

Rotterdam The Hague Airport is at the forefront of hydrogen-powered aviation. One of its projects is the TULIPS demonstration, featuring a hydrogen-powered drone. But first, a permit is needed for a liquid hydrogen storage facility.

No time to waste in becoming circular airports

We need to get rid of the linear waste systems at airports, which cause more emissions. But how? To this end, TULIPS partners presented an innovative Baseline Circular Airports Method (BCAM) at the WCEF in April 2024. This method is empowering airports to minimise waste and foster environmental stewardship. Join us!

2nd Hydrogen Airports Conference on 11 October 2024 in Turin

Together with ACI and To70, TULIPS organises the 2nd Hydrogen Airports Event at Torino Airport on 11 October 2024. Topics: a common vision on hydrogen flight and airports, guidelines for incorporating hydrogen in the aerodrome infrastructure and predicting hydrogen demand.

Iron Flow Battery almost ready for testing

After a long run-up we are almost ready to start testing our innovative Iron Flow Battery. We plan to test it by charging our e-GPU’s at the AB platform. Schiphol’s Innovation manager Oscar Maan gives an update.

TULIPS partners op bikes in front of Schiphol with tulips

TULIPS deep dive sessions

Traditionally when the tulips bloom in April, the TULIPS partners come to Schiphol. During deep dive sessions we shared updates on the use of (micro) smart grids, the hydrogen GPU, tagging construction materials to reuse them, SAF infrastructure and much more. It’s great to see how the plans for the demonstrations are now really being implemented.

Join TULIPS at the World Circular Economy Forum

Join us at this year’s World Circular Economy Forum. We’re privileged to host a Studio on Zero Waste Airports. We will give an update on the methodology we are currently testing at Schiphol, Oslo and Larnaca and will discuss practical tools for airports

Check out the TULIPS highlights of 2023

TULIPS enjoyed a busy and eventful with meetings, demonstrations and presentations. Thank you for your ongoing interest in TULIPS and your support. Check out our highlights!

Bos Logistics’ first electric truck at Schiphol

Bos Logistics started testing their first electric truck at Schiphol, investigating how it performs compared to trucks with other fuels when it comes to environmental, social and energy impact. Our aim: decarbonising the first and last mile.

TULIPS tests water screen to mitigate ultrafine particles

In order to reduce the amount of ultrafine particles at airports the TULIPS team conducted a test with an innovative water screen. Can we remove ultrafine particles from the air with the help of water droplets? Joint us for a test day!

The role of aviation in green transport corridors in Europe

Airports are often the entry and exit points of the EU. What then, could their contribution be to the green transport corridors in Europe? During the eMago kick -off conference, TULIPS and other H2020 project discussed this and possible cross-fertilisation.

Schiphol tests use of water drops and innovative device to filter air

Schiphol will conduct two pilots to reduce ultrafine particles on the apron; an air filtration installation to filter the air indoors and an innovative waterscreen that uses mist to remove ultrafine particles from the air. This pilot is conducted by TULIPS.

TULIPS meeting at Larnaca airport

Our TULIPS team had three fruitful days with meetings and workshops at fellow airport Larnaca (Hermes Airports) to share progress and exchange lessons learned.

Sustainable land use by carbon sequestration at Schiphol

The TULIPS’ Workpackage 7 team started its latest field experiment. On a piece of agricultural land next to the Polderbaan biochar has been incorporated into the land. Can we increase CO2 storage into the ground for a longer period of time this way?

Pier D Amsterdam Airport Schiphol, where the research lab has been opened

Schiphol opens research lab for ultrafine particles on apron

At Schiphol, a research lab has been opened at two aircraft stands on Pier D. The lab is full of equipment that can measure ultrafine particles and will be used to test measures and experiment with innovative ideas. The data and lessons learned of the research lab will be available for TULIPS as well.

The new charging infrastructure for the NLR's Pipistrel is officially taken into operation

Electric charging infrastructure at Rotterdam Airport put into operation

A new charging infrastructure for electric aircraft was put into operation at RTHA. It will supply the Pipistrel with electricity for research and training flights. A TULIPS demo is planned for 2024.

Green Airports side event at Paris Air Show 2023

To give some insights into the solutions we are working on, we joined EU Green Deal Projects OLGA and STARGATE at the Paris Air Show for a side event, discussing the challenges of e.g. SAF and hydrogen on the our way to becoming zero emisson airports.

DJMiddelkoop welcomed as new TULIPS partner

TULIPS recently welcomed DJMiddelkoop as new TULIPS partner. This logistics company will test heavy e-trucks in their airfreight operation.

Spotting the ‘big five’ at our airport waste safari

To reduce waste, first we need knowledge about waste. So we planned an adventurous waste safari in the underbelly of our airports to look for our ‘big five’. That is: the most the most important insights.

Bos Logistics new partner TULIPS consortium

Recently Bos Logistics joined the TULIPS consortium. The company’s ambition is to have a leading role in reducing the CO2-footprint in first and final mile distribution. Bos Logistics is participating in work package 1; increase electric freight transport.

Your urgent questions about SAF answered

Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF) will play an important role in making aviation more sustainable. Some of the many questions we received about SAF during our launch event we’re answering here.

TULIPS deep dive sessions

In the spring of 2023 we organised a number of deep dive sessions with the TULIPS workpackages. How far are the plans? What issues do we see? And of course it’s always great to speak to one another in person.

TULIPS with sister projects at PTE 2023

TULIPS and its H2020 green airport sister projects OLGA, Stargate and ALIGHT organised a workshop at the PTE 2023. We all have our own unique projects and demonstrations aimed at how to enable greener flights.

Innovative Iron Flow Battery on it’s way to Schiphol

Schiphol will be testing an iron flow battery for charging electric handling equipment at remote locations. It reduces the airport’s carbon footprint and air pollution. A TULIPS test is also planned.

It's a match; speeddating between EU Green Deal programmes on ports and airports

It’s a match! Building bridges for greener EU (air)ports

EU Green Deal projects focusing on decarbonising ports or airports got together in Brussels. They concluded that there is great potential in closer cooperation. How can we learn from each other?

Can biochar help decarbonisation of airports?

The large green areas of airports could potentially be used to capture CO2 using biochar. Therefore TULIPS is investigating biochar sequestration at Torino Airport SAGAT. It may help in decarbonisation of airports.

TULIPS meeting on SAF at Avinor Oslo Airport

How can airports incentivise use and production of SAF? That’s what we discussed during the TULIPS meeting at Avinor Oslo Airport on 8 December 2022.

Looking back on TULIPS Launch event

Have a look at our TULIPS Launch event cartoon. A wrap up as colourful as the day! Did you miss out on our event? Then you can still enjoy our event highlights or recording of the livestream.

Panel discussion during TULIPS launch event

TULIPS launches sustainable and innovative projects

With great interest we presented our plans during our TULIPS Launch event. With these demonstrator projects we want to drastically reduce emissions at airports before 2030 and decarbonise aviation.

Last chance to register for TULIPS launch event

In October you are welcome to join us for the TULIPS launch event. Help us tackle the challenges to make airports more sustainable.

Registration open for TULIPS launch event

In October you are welcome to join us for the TULIPS launch event. Help us tackle the challenges to make airports more sustainable.

Italian Ministry and PoliTO sign agreement on SAF

The Italian Ministry and TULIPS partner PoliTO have signed a three year agreement on analysing and promoting the use of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF)

Save the date TULIPS launch event

In October you are welcome to join us for the TULIPS launch event. Help us tackle the challenges to make airports more sustainable.

TULIPS green airports partners meeting

TULIPS teams meet in person

The TULIPS workpackage leads and -liaisons met for a stimulating meeting to discuss plans and challenges. For the first time together at Amsterdam Airport Schiphol.

TULIPS green airports at Refuel Europe conference

TULIPS at ReFuel Europe conference

TULIPS was present at the Refuel Europe conference in Brussels to talk about developing a large scale supply chain for Sustainable Aviation Fuels.

TULIPS’ synergies with sister EU projects

TULIPS took part in de Passenger Terminal Expo in Paris to discuss synergies with its sister projects Olga and Stargate. We join forces to realise the European Green Deal.

Press release

The TULIPS green airports aims to speed up the rollout of sustainable technologies in aviation and to significantly contribute towards the zero emissions and zero waste airports by 2030 and climate-neutral aviation by 2050

Kick-off meeting

The kick-off meeting takes place on the 26th and 27th of January.

Meet TULIPS

Please contact us if you have any questions or ideas.