First, the aircraft aligns with their current fleet, allowing it to simplify their operations and maintenance. Although Boeing was reportedly attempting to sell Delta on completed 737 MAX aircraft, the airline already has 130 737-900ERs in their fleet. Second, the aircraft allows the company to improve fuel efficiency while still investing in the customer experience.
United’s investment is based on creating an environmentally-sustainable aircraft capable of serving small airports across the U.S. Teaming with Breakthrough Energy Ventures and Heart Aerospace, the group wants to develop the 19-seat ES-19: an electric airliner with a range of 250 miles. If the aircraft meets United’s safety, business and operating requirements, the carrier will purchase 100 ES-19s, all to be operated by partner Mesa Airlines.
This marks the second time in 2021 United has invested in experimental aircraft. In June 2021, United signed a commercial agreement with Boom Supersonic to invest in high-speed aircraft. The new leases and developments continue a season of rapid expansion for airlines, hopeful to fill new aircraft with eager passengers. Since the beginning of the year, Alaska Airlines, Southwest Airlines and United have all announced new aircraft orders.
