American Airlines has signed a memorandum of understanding with aircraft manufacturer Embraer to join its Energia Advisory Group. The group is comprised or airlines, lessors, suppliers and other aviation experts providing advisement to Embraer on developing future sustainable aircraft. Back in June 2023 U.S. regional operator Republic Airways joined the advisory group. Participating advisory group members will provide vital assistance to Embraer on a next generation 19-50 seat aircraft.
A Future Sustainable Regional Aircraft
American Airlines will work with Embraer to set performance and design requirements for the Energia concept aircraft. The aircraft will seat anywhere from 9-50 seats. The aircraft will enter a market dominated by larger 75 seat aircraft such as the E175 or obsolete smaller regional aircraft. With no replacement aircraft on the horizon, Embraer looks to bring the Energia aircraft to market with alternative powerplant options on the table including electric hydrogen or electric engines. Jill Blickstein, Vice President of Sustainability at American had this to say regarding their participation, “As the operator of the largest U.S. regional fleet, we believe industry collaborations aimed at advancing decarbonization technologies are critical to helping aviation reach its goal of net-zero emissions by 2050. Other airlines and suppliers may join the advisory group as they find innovative ways to meet net zero emissions goals.
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