Delta Partners with Maeve Aerospace on Hybrid Aircraft

Delta Partners with Maeve Aerospace on Hybrid-Electric Regional Aircraft

Delta Air Lines is partnering with Maeve Aerospace to advance the development of Maeve’s hybrid-electric aircraft designed for regional flights. The MAEVE Jet aims to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by up to 40% when using conventional jet fuel, with even greater reductions possible when utilizing sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). This collaboration supports Delta’s ongoing efforts to explore alternative, more fuel-efficient aircraft solutions, enhance operational efficiency, and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.

As Maeve’s North American airline partner, Delta will offer operational expertise to support the development of the MAEVE Jet. The aircraft features a five-abreast, single-aisle seating layout designed to combine the economics and comfort of narrow-body aircraft with short-haul operations.

Maeve joins Delta’s Sustainable Skies Lab as the fifth fleet partner, contributing to the airline’s 2023 Sustainability Roadmap. The lab focuses on developing solutions for short-, medium-, and long-haul markets. Other partners include JetZero, Joby, Airbus, and Boeing, all exploring next-generation aircraft designs and technologies.

Delta’s sustainability strategy focuses on three main areas: the aircraft it operates, operational efficiency, and the type of fuel used. The initiatives include investing in next-generation aircraft, increasing the use of sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), optimizing flight operations, and reducing onboard weight to lower fuel consumption. Recently, Delta reached a milestone by achieving a 1% fuel savings, which is equivalent to 45 million gallons of jet fuel, through operational improvements.

The MAEVE Jet is compatible with both conventional jet fuel and SAF. Its hybrid-electric engine provides power assistance during low-altitude operations, reducing fuel use and enabling more efficient integration of electric systems.

“It’s a privilege to have Delta as a partner in the development of groundbreaking technologies and processes,” shared Martin Nuesseler, Chief Technology Officer at Maeve Aerospace.

“Their expertise in fleet innovation and commitment to aviation sustainability is unmatched, and we’re proud to work together to tailor the MAEVE Jet for the U.S. market.”

Delta is working with Green Taxi Aerospace through its Sustainable Skies Lab to explore electric taxiing technology, alongside its aircraft development initiatives. This technology aims to reduce fuel consumption, lower operating costs, decrease taxi times, and minimize carbon emissions for regional aircraft, all while leveraging Delta’s operational expertise.