Delta Air Lines has announced it is “joining forces” with Maeve Aerospace to accelerate the development of the Dutch company’s hybrid-electric regional aircraft.
The airline said the move is “the latest milestone in [its] ongoing journey to identify potential alternative and more fuel-efficient aircraft solutions”.
As featured in the current issue of LARA magazine, the MAEVE Jet is a hybrid-electric aircraft designed to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by up to 40% compared to current regional jets.
The project is attracting considerable attention, and Delta joins a list of big-name collaborators, including MHIRJ, Pratt & Whitney, and Japan Airlines. The news comes days after SkyWest Inc. announced that it had entered into a strategic agreement as an equity investor in Maeve Aerospace.
Delta said it will provide operational expertise to help guide the aircraft’s development and ensure its commercial viability.
“Delta is proud to collaborate with Maeve to help shape the next chapter of regional aviation and accelerate progress toward a more sustainable future of flight,” said Kristen Bojko, Vice President of Fleet at Delta Air Lines.
“As we work toward the next generation of aircraft, we look to partners like Maeve who embody the bold, forward-thinking innovation we champion at Delta – solutions that advance aircraft design, enhance operational efficiency, elevate employee and customer experiences, and cut emissions. While driving toward transformative technologies that strengthen our network and redefine regional air travel remains a key priority, we’re equally focused on safety and a more sustainable future of flight.”
The MAEVE Jet, an artist’s impression.
