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

Qantas Engineers Stage Walkout Over Cost of Living Concerns

Tensions at Qantas reached new heights as base maintenance workers in Brisbane walked out of a hangar meeting hosted by the airline’s CEO, Vanessa Hudson.

The walkout was a clear display of displeasure and aimed to send a strong message to the company’s management about the growing frustrations within the workforce. The workers, represented by the Qantas Engineers Alliance, have been pushing for wage increases that reflect the rising cost of living.

In an open display of displeasure, Qantas Base maintenance workers walked out of a hangar meet hosted by the CEO Vanessa Hudson in Brisbane, also aimed to send a message to the management.

Qantas Engineers Alliance members have been demanding decent wage increases to match with… pic.twitter.com/y9EVjc46VM— FL360aero (@fl360aero) September 14, 2024

Despite ongoing discussions, the employees feel that their concerns have been overlooked, leading to this public show of dissent. The hangar meeting, meant to foster dialogue and address employee concerns, instead became the stage for a visible demonstration of dissatisfaction as the workers exited in unison.

For some time, the engineers and maintenance staff have expressed frustration over wage stagnation amid increasing inflation and living costs. Their demand is simple: a decent and fair wage adjustment that keeps pace with economic realities. The walkout underscores the workers’ determination to stand firm on their request for better pay and fair treatment.

As Qantas navigates its recovery post-pandemic, this incident highlights the growing internal challenges the airline faces, especially concerning its workforce. The maintenance staff’s actions have put additional pressure on the company’s leadership to address the wage concerns and avoid further escalation.