Air New Zealand has joined Embraer’s Energia Advisory Group – a group of airlines, lessors, manufacturers and other aviation experts advising Embraer’s Energia project developing sustainable aircraft for the future.
Embraer also becomes a long-term partner in Air New Zealand’s Mission Next Gen Aircraft initiative, working alongside the airline to accelerate the development and introduction of zero emissions aircraft technology for regional fleet in New Zealand.
The companies will also work together on the design requirements for next-generation sustainable aircraft.
Air New Zealand chief sustainability officer Kiri Hannifin commented that the airline’s bold sustainability goals would not fit the “business as usual” approach. Instead, it aims to accelerate the technology and infrastructure needed to decarbonise its domestic flights, by working together with leading aircraft developers, innovators, and infrastructure providers around the world.
“We want to be a leader in the roll-out of zero emissions aircraft in New Zealand. Having Embraer as one of our long-term partners will grow our collective understanding of zero emissions aircraft technology as it develops, and will give them the confidence (that) they are developing a viable product for us,” said Hannifin.
Arjan Meijer, president and CEO, Embraer Commercial Aviation, added: “Smaller, regional aircraft are going to be the first platforms on which new fuel and propulsion systems can be introduced effectively. Embraer looks forward to contributing to Air New Zealand’s initiative and also adding their expertise and requirements to Embraer’s Energia project.”
