American Airlines invests further into hydrogen-powered aviation technology

American Airlines is also increasing its investment in ZeroAvia by an undisclosed amount. The carrier first invested in ZeroAvia in 2022 and participated in its Series C funding round announced in November 2023. This new funding comes shortly after Universal Hydrogen announced its closure due to a lack of investors.

ZeroAvia stated that its first converted regional airliner will be a 19-seater capable of operating routes up to approximately 261 nautical miles using ZA600 engines powered by hydrogen gas. The more powerful ZA2000s are expected to support flights over 600 nautical miles using liquid hydrogen. Flight tests for the ZA600 have been conducted on a converted Dornier 228 aircraft.

In December 2021, United Airlines and Alaska Airlines contributed $35 million to ZeroAvia's investment round. United secured rights for up to 100 ZA2000 engines for its United Express unit's regional jets, while Alaska expressed interest in converting up to 50 Dash 8 Q400 twin turboprops.

American Airlines operates a fleet of CRJ700s through PSA Airlines, its regional affiliate. Robert Isom, American’s CEO, commented: “Advancing the transition of commercial aviation to a low-carbon future requires investments in promising technologies, including alternate forms of propulsion.” He added that this announcement supports their commitment "to make American a sustainable airline."

ZeroAvia’s technology uses hydrogen fuel cells to generate electricity powering electric motors that turn propellers, emitting only low-temperature water vapor as emissions.