Airlines

United Becomes First U.S. Airline to Invest in Biofuel Refinery

United Airlines Ventures (UAV) has revealed a strategic investment in NEXT Renewable Fuels (NEXT)

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United Airlines Ventures (UAV) has revealed a strategic investment in NEXT Renewable Fuels (NEXT), which has received approval for the construction of its flagship biofuel refinery in Port Westward, Oregon, with production set to start in 2026. The biorefinery being built by NEXT, a Houston-based business, has the potential to produce up to 50,000 barrels per day of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), renewable diesel, and other renewable fuels once it is fully operational. If NEXT achieves specific milestone objectives, UAV may invest up to $37.5 million in the business.

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A deep-water port, an existing industrial-grade dock, and multi-modal transportation options are just a few of the special advantages that NEXT’s biorefinery offers. These advantages make it easier to reach feedstock alternatives and rapidly expanding SAF offtake markets on the west coast.

By securing a deal with BP to source all of its feedstock, NEXT has further reduced the danger of the supply problems that smaller facilities have previously faced. A critical air permit for NEXT has also been granted by the State of Oregon. The biorefinery may be utilised as a platform to scale SAF and implement additional future technologies after all required clearances and permits have been received and it is operating.

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United has been an industry leader in advocating for alternative jet fuel for years – including investing in more SAF production than any other airline in the world and flying the world’s first passenger flight using 100% SAF in one engine. United also launched the Eco-Skies Alliance program, which among its 30 corporate participants, has collectively purchased more than 7 million gallons of sustainable aviation fuel.

With no reliance on conventional carbon offsets like voluntary offsets or tree planting, UAV is a pioneering sustainability-focused ventures fund that targets startups, emerging technologies, and ideas that will support United’s aim of net zero emissions by 2050. SAF manufacturers and other businesses that are developing technologies like carbon utilization, hydrogen-electric engines, electric regional aircraft, and air taxis are currently included in UAV’s portfolio.

Airlines

Air India to Launch aircraft maintenance training institute in Bengaluru

Air India, one of India’s leading global airlines, is set to establish a Basic Maintenance Training Organization (BMTO) in Bengaluru.

This institute will offer a comprehensive Aircraft Maintenance Engineering (AME) program certified by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The program will follow an integrated 2+2 year structure, combining classroom learning with practical, hands-on training.

This initiative is part of Air India’s broader goal of creating a robust aviation ecosystem in India. With plans to expand its fleet and strengthen its operations, the airline aims to build a skilled workforce of maintenance engineers, making the organization self-reliant while supporting its ambitious transformation journey.

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To bring this vision to life, air india has partnered with Bengaluru Airport City Limited (BACL), a subsidiary of Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL). Together, they will develop a state-of-the-art facility spanning 86,000 square feet at Bengaluru Airport City.

This purpose-built campus will feature modern classrooms, well-equipped laboratories, and qualified trainers to deliver world-class education and training. The institute is expected to become operational by mid-2026.

The BMTO will be located close to Air India’s new 12-bay Maintenance, Repair, and Overhaul (MRO) facility, also set to open in Bengaluru by early 2026. The AME program will begin with two years of academic coursework, followed by two years of practical training at the MRO, ensuring students receive hands-on experience adhering to industry standards.

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In the meantime, Air India has introduced a Cadet AME program in collaboration with reputable institutions in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

This ensures continuity in its commitment to developing skilled aircraft maintenance engineers while the BMTO facility is under construction. The program also allows students to pursue a bachelor’s degree through university partnerships, enhancing their career and academic opportunities.

With this initiative, air india plane aims to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in aircraft maintenance and engineering, air india new planes contributing to the development of India’s aviation sector and creating specialized career paths for aspiring engineers.