Arvind Gangoli Rao

Arvind Gangoli Rao is a Professor of Sustainable Aircraft Propulsion at Delft University of Technology, specializing in the Flight Performance and Propulsion department within the Faculty of Aerospace Engineering. His research focuses on developing sustainable aviation technologies with particular emphasis on hydrogen and alternative fuel systems for aircraft propulsion.

Professor Rao's research interests span sustainable aviation, aircraft propulsion systems, hydrogen fuel technology, combustion engineering, and emission reduction. His work addresses critical challenges in transitioning aviation toward climate-neutral operations through innovative propulsion concepts and alternative fuel applications. His expertise particularly focuses on multi-fuel combustors, hydrogen blending effects, and the climate impact assessment of aircraft technologies.

His recent publications demonstrate a clear trend toward hydrogen and alternative fuel research for sustainable aviation. The articles focus on jet-in-coflow dynamics, dual-fuel combustor capabilities, kerosene-hydrogen blending effects, and stabilization characteristics of hydrogen-methane blends. These works collectively address the technical challenges of implementing hydrogen and alternative fuels in aircraft propulsion systems while maintaining performance and reducing emissions.

His notable recognition includes serving as an Expert Reviewer for the IPCC WGIII Sixth Assessment Report, highlighting his authority in climate impact assessment of aviation technologies.

Professor Rao has supervised multiple students (5 documented supervised works) and has been actively involved in significant research collaborations and initiatives. He recently participated in a hydrogen research mission to Spain with King Willem-Alexander and Climate and Energy Minister Rob Jetten, where TU Delft, TNO, and the Spanish CNH2 signed a collaboration agreement on hydrogen production, transport, and storage.

His research activities extend to participation in major international conferences and forums related to sustainable aircraft propulsion and thermal systems, demonstrating his leadership in advancing climate-neutral aviation technologies.