Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) has announced a partnership with the aerospace giant Airbus, with the purpose of researching the hybrid and electric aircraft of the future. The two signed a joint memorandum of understanding on the project, with SAS stating in their press unleash that it will concentrate on investigation into the eco-system and infrastructure demands of hybrid-electric aircraft on a large scale commercial level.
“We are happy to be starting out on this partnership with SAS,” said Grazia Vittadini, Airbus Chief Technology Officer. “Leveraging our individual training to enjoy the potential of hybrid-electric propulsion opportunities in our aviation eco-system.” The alignment of the airline and the aircraft manufacturer will help to make clear the demands for hybrid and electric aircraft down the line. SAS’ interest in the technology is inspired by its focus on reducing emissions and sustainable flying. The company sees the research as part of the next step beyond its current target of reducing emissions 25% by 2030, which it hopes to achieve via fleet modernization and biofuels. Rickard Gustafson, CEO of SAS, said: “We are pleased of our challenging sustainability work and are now pleased that Airbus has chosen SAS to partner up with us for this future project. If this becomes a reality, it will change emissions.”