Daily CSR
Daily CSR

Daily CSR
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American Airlines invests in hydrogen electric zero emission leader ZeroAvia



08/17/2022

ZeroAvia’s hydrogen-electric engines could power regional jets in this decade.


In a statement American Airlines announced its investment in ZeroAvia, a leader in hydrogen-electric zero-emission aviation.

In addition to the investment, it has also signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with ZeroAvia and placed an order up to 100 engines of the company’s hydrogen-electric powertrain engine. These will power regional jet aircraft with zero emissions.

“Our investment in ZeroAvia’s emerging hydrogen-electric engine technology has the potential to play a key role in the future of sustainable aviation,” said Derek Kerr, American’s Chief Financial Officer (CFO). “We are excited to contribute to this industry development and look forward to exploring how these engines can support the future of our airline as we build American Airlines to thrive forever.”

ZeroAvia is working to achieve certain type certifications of its innovative propulsion technology that will pave the way for the engines to be incorporated into the regional jet market in the coming future. Its ZA2000-RJ powertrain is slated to be fitted into regional jets as early as the late 2020s.

“Having support from the world’s largest airline is a strong indication of the progress we’re making on the development of hydrogen-electric, zero-emission flight,” said ZeroAvia Founder and CEO Val Miftakhov. “We are focused on delivering sustainable travel, and are delighted that American, a visionary leader in the industry, sees ZeroAvia as a part of the future of aviation.”

This investment showcases another action on American’s path to achieve its aggressive climate goals, including achieving net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050.

In addition to the strategy and progress outlined in American’s recently published Environmental, Social and Governance Report, other recent sustainability efforts by the airline include: