American Airlines has announced its investment in ZeroAvia, with an MoU to order up to 100 engines from its hydrogen-electric powertrain development programme. The engines are intended to power regional jet aircraft with zero emissions.

Derek Kerr, American’s Chief Financial Officer, said: “Our investment in ZeroAvia’s emerging hydrogen-electric engine technology has the potential to play a key role in the future of sustainable aviation. We are excited to contribute to this industry development and look forward to exploring how these engines can support the future of our airline as we build American Airlines to thrive forever.”

Val Miftakhov, ZeroAvia, Founder & CEO, added: “Having support from the world’s largest airline is a strong indication of the progress we’re making on the development of hydrogen-electric, zero-emission flight. We are focused on delivering sustainable travel, and are delighted that American, a visionary leader in the industry, sees ZeroAvia as a part of the future of aviation.”

The commercial and investment deal with American continues the strong commercial momentum for ZeroAvia’s hydrogen-electric powertrain technologies and Hydrogen Airport Refueling Ecosystem (HARE), coming on the heels of the agreements with Ravn Alaska, MONTE, MHIRJ, Otto Aviation, Shell, Edmonton International Airport and PowerCell.