The US is set to receive its “first” zero-emission airline with Universal Hydrogen and Connect Airlines partnering to achieve this target with the first hydrogen-powered aircraft to be operational in 2025.
With the signing of a Letter of Intent (LOI), a new green propulsion system that utilises hydrogen could be developed to create the US’ first zero-emission airline contributing to lower emissions across various industries.
The mobility sector has been identified as one of the key areas in which the US needs to decarbonise to achieve its net zero emission ambitions.
Hydrogen is seen as a clear choice to be implemented into airlines to achieve not only zero-emissions but also to be more fuel efficient to travel longer distances.
Connect Airlines has committed to purchasing 24 of Universal hydrogen’s green hydrogen conversion kits which consists of a firm order for 12 Dash 8-300 kits and purchase rights for 12 additional kits of other aircraft types.
Once the conversion shave been completed, Universal hydrogen will then supply green hydrogen fuel to the Connect Airlines fleet under a long-term agreement.
said John Thomas, CEO of Connect Airlines, said, “Connect Airlines flies smarter, that’s why we’re excited to partner with Universal Hydrogen to pursue our goal of being the first zero-emission airline in the United States.
“In addition to this LOI, we were pleased to participate in Universal Hydrogen’s recent $62m financing round.”
Paul Eremenko, co-founder and CEO of Universal Hydrogen, said, “The US is a laggard in its decarbonisation efforts, and the US aviation industry is no exception.
“That is why the bold step that Connect Airlines is making in being the first airline to commit to true zero-emissions operation in the relatively near term is so monumentally important.”
