American Airlines plans to buy hydrogen-electric engines from ZeroAvia

American Airlines announced on Tuesday that it has signed a conditional purchase agreement to acquire 100 hydrogen-electric engines from ZeroAvia. The airline aims to power a fleet of regional airliners, potentially retrofitted CRJ700s, with these engines. ZeroAvia's system utilizes hydrogen in fuel cells to generate electricity, which then powers conventional electric motors turning propellers.

American Airlines is an investor in the European startup and has increased its stake in the company, although the exact amount was not disclosed. Currently, ZeroAvia is flight testing a 20-seat aircraft and developing a larger system capable of powering the CRJ700.

“Advancing the transition of commercial aviation to a low-carbon future requires investments in promising technologies, including alternate forms of propulsion,” said American’s CEO Robert Isom. “This announcement will help accelerate the development of technologies needed to power our industry and uphold our commitment to make American a sustainable airline so we can continue to deliver for customers for decades to come.”