American Airlines expands partnership with ZeroAvia for Hydrogen-Electric Engines, setting course for Sustainable Aviation future.
American Airlines recently announced a conditional purchase agreement with clean aviation innovator ZeroAvia. The agreement is for 100 hydrogen-electric engines designed to power regional jet aircraft, emitting only water vapor. Additionally, American has increased its investment in ZeroAvia, having initially invested in 2022 and participated in the company’s Series C financing round. This engine agreement follows a Memorandum of Understanding between the companies announced in 2022.
ZeroAvia is developing hydrogen-electric engines for commercial aircraft, aiming for nearly zero inflight emissions. The company is currently flight testing a prototype for a 20-seat plane and designing engines for larger aircraft like the Bombardier CRJ700, used by American on specific regional routes.
Robert Isom, CEO of American Airlines, said, “Advancing the transition of commercial aviation to a low-carbon future requires investments in promising technologies, including alternate forms of propulsion. This announcement will help accelerate the development of technologies needed to power our industry and uphold our commitment to make American a sustainable airline so we can continue to deliver for customers for decades to come.”
American’s investment in novel engine technology supports its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Furthermore, the airline’s extensive fleet renewal effort has resulted in the youngest mainline fleet among U.S. carriers, boosting fuel efficiency. Additionally, American has invested in sustainable aviation fuel with Infinium and carbon removal technology with Graphyte.
Val Miftakhov, ZeroAvia Founder and CEO, said, “In signing this purchase agreement and furthering its investment, American is supporting our mission of innovation for clean aircraft propulsion and it is a good signal that ZeroAvia is delivering on our technology roadmap. The solutions that can serve the largest airlines are within reach, and the clean future of flight is coming.”
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ZeroAvia’s hydrogen-electric engines utilize hydrogen in fuel cells to generate electricity. Additionally, this electricity powers electric motors that drive the aircraft’s propellers. The only emission during flight is low-temperature water vapor. Moreover, the streamlined electrical systems have the potential to provide substantial cost savings.
Q. – What did American Airlines announce with ZeroAvia?
A. – Conditional purchase agreement for 100 hydrogen-electric engines.
Q. – What emissions do ZeroAvia’s engines produce during flight?
A. – Only water vapor.
