With Sustainable Goals Looming, Hybrid Power Offers Nifty Way Forward

American Airlines signed off on a conditional purchase agreement with ZeroAvia that could provide them with 100 of hydrogen-electric hybrid powerplants.

The deal was accompanied with a renewed investment into ZeroAvia by the carrier, as they tossed some money into the company's Series C financing round. This recent deal falls under the original Memorandum of Understanding signed between the two back in 2022. Now that ZeroAvia's development process is bearing more tangible fruit, the carrier feels more confident in committing money to their ZA2000 engine.

If it goes as planned, ZeroAvia should be able to offer them a sustainable replacement for their jet A-burning turbofan engines on the American Airlines RJ fleet, replacing them with hydrogen burning, battery-powered electric motors that emit nothing but water. 

That's an attractive idea to an industry fearing governmental emissions intervention, particularly where it cuts costs for smaller, more unprofitable routes. ZeroAvia has a 20-seat aircraft in its plans, too, which would further help bolster the carrier's options in smaller markets.

“Advancing the transition of commercial aviation to a low-carbon future requires investments in promising technologies, including alternate forms of propulsion,” said American Airlines CEO Robert Isom. “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.”

FMI: www.zeroavia.com