Delta Air Lines has announced a partnership with Maeve Aerospace to support the development of the MAEVE Jet, a hybrid electric aircraft designed for regional flights. The collaboration aims to reduce lifecycle emissions compared to current regional aircraft, particularly when using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). Delta’s involvement includes lending operational expertise as Maeve’s North American global airline partner.
The MAEVE Jet features a five-abreast, single-aisle configuration and is intended to bring narrow-body economics and comfort to short-haul operations. The aircraft is designed for compatibility with both conventional jet fuel and SAF, and it aims for up to 40% fuel reduction through its hybrid-electric engine architecture. This design allows for power assistance at low altitudes, optimizing both the power plant and wing for lower fuel consumption.
Kristen Bojko, Vice President of Fleet at Delta Air Lines, stated: “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. 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.”
Maeve Aerospace joins Delta’s Sustainable Skies Lab as its fifth partner. Other partners in this initiative include JetZero—working on blended wing body mainline aircraft—as well as Joby Aviation with home-to-airport offerings, Airbus, and Boeing. These partnerships reflect Delta’s broader sustainability strategy which focuses on investing in next-generation aircraft technology, increasing SAF usage, optimizing flight operations, and reducing onboard weight.
Martin Nuesseler, Chief Technology Officer at Maeve Aerospace said: “It’s a privilege to have Delta as a partner in the development of groundbreaking technologies and processes. 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.”
In addition to its work with Maeve Aerospace, Delta is also collaborating with Green Taxi Aerospace through its Sustainable Skies Lab. This partnership seeks to develop electric taxiing technology aimed at reducing fuel use, operating costs, taxi time, and carbon emissions during ground operations.
These efforts are part of Delta’s goal to achieve net-zero emissions by 2050 through investments in new technology and sustainable practices across its fleet.
