Alex Terrell wrote:


Perhaps airports should be equipped with electromagnetic launchers,
that could launch a hydrogen powered aircraft.


Here we see the hydrogen-fueled airliner lifting off from its launcher:
http://davidszondy.com/future/Flight/bulletplane.jpg

High altitude airports could launch craft at supersonic speed - this
too might have an application for space launch.


Better yet, high-velocity rotary wing launcher!:
http://media.popularmechanics.com/images/194107.jpg
The passengers will love being stuck to the starboard cabin wall as the
rotor comes up to speed.
For real fun, figure out what happens if the tow line doesn't detach on
this scheme:
http://davidszondy.com/future/Flight/jet_catapult.jpg
.....the catapult vehicle stops...and the tow line draws taut...and
then.... :-D

Pat