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)

United Airlines CEO Apologizes for Taking Private Jet During Flight Disruptions

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.

American Airlines Makes Equity Investment in Universal Hydrogen(Opens in a new browser tab)

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.

Qantas and Airbus Partnership for the biofuel industry.(Opens in a new browser tab)

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

A Costly Mistake: Passenger Pays for Fuel After Disruptive Flight

A Western Australian man has learned a costly lesson after his unruly behavior on a flight resulted in the aircraft having to turn back. The passenger was ordered to pay over $5,000 in fuel costs, along with a significant fine, for causing the plane to divert.

The incident occurred in September 2023 when the man, who was not publicly named, became disruptive on a flight from Perth to Sydney. Due to his behavior, the pilot was forced to turn the plane around and return to Perth, which required dumping fuel to land safely.

The passenger pleaded guilty to charges of disorderly behavior and non-compliance with safety instructions. As a result, he was ordered to pay $8,630 to the airline to cover the cost of the wasted fuel and was also fined $6,055. This combined penalty of over $11,000 is a stark reminder of the severe consequences of disruptive behavior on flights.

While this is not a typical punishment, other cases of in-flight misconduct have resulted in hefty fines. One passenger in the United States was fined over $40,000 for a series of offenses, including bringing their own alcohol on board, being intoxicated, attempting to smoke marijuana, and sexually assaulting a flight attendant.

The Australian Federal Police emphasized that disruptive behavior on flights will not be tolerated. They warned that individuals who cause disturbances can face significant financial penalties and legal consequences. The case of the Western Australian passenger serves as a clear message that obeying airline staff and adhering to safety regulations is essential for a smooth and safe flight.