Airlines
American Airlines Makes Equity Investment in Universal Hydrogen
The investment supports America’s science-based goals to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2035 #americanairlines
The firm establishing a green hydrogen distribution and logistics network for aviation, Universal Hydrogen Co., has today received a strategic equity investment from American Airlines. The investment supports America’s science-based goals to cut greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2035 and, eventually, its promise to reach net GHG emissions-free status by 2050.
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With this commitment, American becomes the first U.S. airline to make two direct investments geared at the advancement of logistics for hydrogen distribution as well as hydrogen-electric powertrain technology.
By using modular hydrogen capsules that are handled like cargo, Universal Hydrogen’s fuel distribution system avoids the need for additional airport fueling infrastructure and streamlines fuel-loading procedures. With plans to expand its services to larger, single-aisle aircraft, Universal Hydrogen anticipates beginning hydrogen supplies for regional aircraft in 2025.
Initially, this will be for auxiliary power in the late 2020s, and then it will be used as a primary fuel by the mid-2030s. These developments put aviation on a road to fulfil the emissions targets set forth in the Paris Agreement because these sectors account for two-thirds of aviation emissions and green hydrogen is a true zero-carbon fuel.
As a strategic investor in Universal Hydrogen, American joins Airbus Ventures, GE Aviation, and Toyota Ventures, as well as a number of significant hydrogen producers and aircraft lessors. This action by American is a clear indication that consumers desire and are prepared to support a truly zero-emissions solution for passenger flying.
