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

Air India Rolls Out A350s for Delhi-New York JFK and Newark Routes

In a major development for North American travelers, Air India has announced the deployment of its state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900 aircraft on two key routes: Delhi to New York and Delhi to Newark.

The service on the Delhi-New York route will commence on November 1, 2024, while the Delhi-Newark route will see its inaugural flight on January 2, 2025.

The introduction of the air india a350 will bring significant enhancements to Air India’s offerings, particularly with the launch of its Premium Economy class. air india retrofit This new class will feature 24 wide seats arranged in a 2-4-2 configuration, providing passengers with extra legroom and a more comfortable flying experience.

Soon, Air India aircraft will feature onboard WiFi & all-new cabins: Click here

“We are encouraged by the positive guest feedback we have received from the domestic deployment of our air india a350 interior to offer our hero product on the Delhi-New York JFK and Delhi-Newark routes. This is a significant leap forward for our U.S. operations that also underscores our commitment to continuous improvement,” said Campbell Wilson, Chief Executive Officer & Managing Director of Air India.

The A350’s Business class will set new standards with 28 private suites, each equipped with full-flat beds, direct aisle access, and personal wardrobes. Economy class will be configured to accommodate 264 passengers in a 3-4-3 layout. Across all cabins, passengers will enjoy the latest Panasonic eX3 in-flight entertainment system, offering over 2,200 hours of content.

Air India’s First A350-900: Interior, Routes, &Inflight Features: Click here

This strategic deployment marks a notable enhancement in Air India’s U.S. operations, with 60% of its flights to the U.S. now featuring new or upgraded cabin interiors. The air india new international routes currently operates 51 weekly flights to five U.S. destinations: New York JFK, Newark, Washington DC, Chicago, and San Francisco.

The revamped cabins, advanced in-flight entertainment systems, and improved service standards represent air india wifi commitment to providing a superior travel experience. “We believe this enhanced offering will solidify Air India’s position as a leading carrier and attract travellers seeking a world-class flying experience between India and the United States,” the airline stated.

Seats on these flights are now available for booking on Air India’s website, mobile app, and through travel agents, ensuring that passengers can easily plan their journeys on these newly upgraded routes.