Delta Air Lines has announced a strategic partnership with Maeve Aerospace to support the development of the MAEVE Jet, a new hybrid-electric aircraft for regional flights. The aircraft is designed to cut fuel consumption and emissions by up to 40% compared with current regional aircraft using conventional jet fuel. Emissions could be reduced further when using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF).
This collaboration marks another step in Delta’s strategy to explore cleaner and more efficient aircraft solutions. It supports the airline’s goal to reach net-zero emissions by 2050. Delta aims to drive fuel savings, improve customer experience and accelerate the adoption of sustainable technologies.
As Maeve’s North American global airline partner, Delta will contribute operational expertise during the MAEVE Jet’s development. The aircraft’s design brings narrow-body economics and comfort to short-haul operations. It features a single-aisle layout with five-abreast seating. Maeve expects this design to redefine regional air travel by combining efficiency and passenger comfort in a sustainable package.
Maeve has joined Delta Sustainable Skies Lab as its fifth revolutionary fleet partner. The Sustainable Skies Lab focuses on testing and accelerating innovative solutions for lower-emission air travel. Partnering with Maeve supports a key milestone in Delta’s 2023 Sustainability Roadmap, which seeks to build a more sustainable future of travel through collaboration and innovation.
Delta now has a portfolio of revolutionary fleet partners spanning different market segments. Alongside Maeve for regional flights, these include JetZero for blended wing body mainline aircraft, Joby for electric home-to-airport air transport, and both Airbus and Boeing, which are researching advanced aerodynamic design solutions.
This partnership positions Delta to support cutting-edge aircraft development while pushing the industry towards lower emissions, improved efficiency and more sustainable regional operations.
