Airlines

ZeroAvia, a developer of hydrogen-electric engines receives investment from American Airlines

ZeroAvia's developing hydrogen-electric engine technology "has the potential to play a vital role in the future of sustainable aviation.

American Airlines revealed its investment in ZeroAvia, a pioneer in aviation powered entirely by hydrogen and zero-emissions.

A memorandum of understanding also gives American the option to acquire up to 100 engines from ZeroAvia initiative for developing hydrogen-electric powertrains in addition to the investment. The engines are designed to provide regional jet aircraft with emissions-free propulsion.

According to Derek Kerr, American’s Chief Financial Officer, ZeroAvia’s developing hydrogen-electric engine technology “has the potential to play a vital role in the future of sustainable aviation.”

“As we construct American Airlines to last forever, we are thrilled to contribute to this industry development and look forward to studying how these engines may serve the future of our airline.

In order for the engines to be used in the future regional jet market, ZeroAvia is trying to receive specific type certifications for its advanced propulsion technology. Passengers could soon be able to board regional jets with zero emissions anticipated by the ZA2000-RJ powertrain.

With this investment, America is taking another step toward attaining its ambitious climate goals, which include having net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050. Along with the plan and developments described in American’s most current Environmental, Social, and Governance Report, other recent sustainability efforts by the airline include:

Receiving the industry’s first-ever CORSIA-certified batch of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) from Neste.
Reaching an agreement to purchase 500 million gallons of SAF over five years from Gevo, Inc., American’s most significant SAF commitment to date.
Becoming the first airline globally to receive validation from the Science Based Targets initiative for its 2035 GHG emissions reduction targets.

Airlines

Sanctions & Engine Issues Ground Half of Russia’s A320neo fleet

Russia’s aviation sector, already strained by Western sanctions, faces another setback as nearly half of its Airbus A320neo family aircraft are grounded due to unresolved engine issues.

This development highlights the growing challenges for russia commercial aircraft in maintaining their fleets under the weight of global restrictions and limited access to spare parts.

Out of the 66 Airbus A320neo and A321neo jets in Russia, 34 are now out of service, according to the Kommersant business newspaper. These planes are powered by engines manufactured by Pratt & Whitney, a subsidiary of RTX Corporation.

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The engines are affected by a previously identified defect in the metal used for certain parts, prompting accelerated inspections and maintenance.

Sanctions have compounded the issue, blocking the supply of essential components from major manufacturers like Boeing and Airbus. Without proper maintenance, experts warn that these aircraft may face decommissioning as early as 2026.

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Airlines like S7, which operates a significant portion of these grounded jets, plan to conserve the engines for future use during peak travel seasons. However, reports suggest that over 20 of S7’s Airbus planes have engines that have already reached the end of their operational lifespan. Recently, russia seeks assistance from kazakhstan’s airlines to bolster its domestic flights.

While some A320neo and A321neo planes in Russia are equipped with French-made LEAP engines, which are seen as less problematic, the challenges remain daunting.

The situation underscores the long-term impact of sanctions on Russia’s aviation sector and the increasing difficulties in keeping its modern fleets operational.