Embraer has announced its participation in the United Airlines Ventures (UAV) sustainable flight fund, an investment initiative dedicated to amplifying the production and accessibility of sustainable aviation fuels (SAF) by supporting pioneering start-ups.
Launched in February 2023, the fund has expanded to include 22 corporate partners spanning diverse industries. United Airlines and its partners have collectively pledged over US$200 million (£159) in capital to invest in start-ups focused on decarbonising the air travel ecosystem.
Leonardo Garnica, Head of Corporate Innovation at Embraer, expressed pride in joining the sustainable flight fund, stating that it aligns with Embraer’s commitment to fostering innovative solutions for the aviation industry’s clean energy transition. Garnica emphasised the potential for collaborative efforts with partners to expedite large-scale SAF production, contributing to the aviation sector’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
Enhancing the availability of SAF is crucial for sustainable aviation, as renewable energy sources can reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by up to 80% compared to conventional jet fuel. This objective aligns with Embraer’s broader sustainability goals, including its target to achieve carbon-neutral operations by 2040.
Embraer’s dedication to sustainability forms an integral part of its business strategy. The company has successfully conducted flight tests using 100% neat SAF and continues to explore avenues to minimise its environmental footprint through strategic partnerships, innovation and research and development in zero-emission alternative propulsion systems.
