Delta Air Lines is partnering with Maeve, providing operational expertise to the team developing a hybrid regional jet aircraft. The new jet is expected to reduce fuel consumption and emissions by around 40% using conventional jet fuel. Using sustainable aviation fuel, higher lifetime emissions reductions are possible, and could meet the industry’s 50% goal for emission reduction by 2035.  This collaboration joins other efforts by Delta to identify and support more fuel-efficient aircraft solutions and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
The Partnership
Delta, Maeve’s North American global airline partner, will support the aircraft development through its operational expertise. Maeve joins JetZero and Green Taxi as a Delta Partner as the airline executes its sustainability strategy and decarbonization of air travel.
“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.” Â
Delta has joined Sky West as a key player in the hybrid-electric aircraft’s development.  “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.”Â
The Bottom Line
Maeve has an innovative design for a new hybrid regional aircraft that could deliver 40% fuel savings with existing jet fuel, and 70%+ emission reductions using SAF over today’s regional jets. The hybrid engine technology under development at Pratt & Whitney will be SAF compatible, providing substantial carbon savings.
Innovation in the aircraft market is coming from start-ups, from Jet Zero’s blended wing body design to Maeve’s hybrid-electric platform. The industry needs radical design changes to reach its sustainability goals, and they are coming from entrepreneurs. Partnering with Sky West and Delta, both large operators of regional aircraft, is advancing both the credibility of the program and likelihood for market success if the design objectives are met. Welcome to the big leagues, Maeve.
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