And although the trial will help to work out the best way to deliver the fuel cell's hydrogen, and how to build a suitable distribution network, it will not necessarily bring the price down to the point where fuel cells can compete with petrol or diesel.

ECONOMIST: Fuel cells hit the road | The

However, an oil price crash in 1986 led to questions over whether such a sophisticated aircraft was affordable and suitable for a small air force such as Oman's, and the contract was cancelled.

ECONOMIST: Oman preserves friendly ties with both Iran and the West