Delta and Airbus Partner on Future Aviation Technologies
Delta Air Lines has announced a groundbreaking partnership with Airbus as part of its 100th-anniversary celebrations, marking a century since the airline’s incorporation. The collaboration, unveiled at the CES 2025 technology conference in Las Vegas from January 7 to 10, 2025, introduces the innovative ‘UpNext’ program. This initiative aims to revolutionize the future of aviation by developing advanced technologies through a joint effort between the world’s leading aircraft manufacturer and its largest Airbus operator.
The ‘UpNext’ program focuses on three key areas of innovation. Firstly, Delta and Airbus will establish a network of innovation labs, including Delta’s Sustainable Skies Lab and several Airbus-run facilities worldwide, such as the dedicated Airbus UpNext center. These labs will collaborate on early-stage, fast-track technology solutions designed to advance the future of aviation. Secondly, the partnership will explore enhancements in wing performance, fuel efficiency, superconductivity, and advanced aircraft assistance systems. These efforts aim to create more efficient and sustainable aircraft, addressing the growing demand for environmentally friendly aviation solutions.
A notable aspect of the partnership is the exploration of the innovative ‘fello’fly’ technique, inspired by migrating geese. This flying method pairs aircraft to harness wake energy retrieval, where the first aircraft creates an uplift that enhances fuel efficiency for the following aircraft. This technique has the potential to significantly reduce overall fuel consumption, contributing to Delta’s sustainability goals.
Additionally, Delta and Airbus will collaborate on scaling up the production and use of Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF). Airbus has committed to joining the Minnesota SAF Hub, a pioneering coalition dedicated to aggressively decarbonizing the airline industry. By increasing the production and utilization of SAF, the partnership aims to lower carbon emissions and promote sustainable practices within the aviation sector.
During his keynote address at CES 2025, Delta CEO Ed Bastian emphasized the airline’s commitment to expanding global access to air travel. “It’s estimated that 80 percent or more of the world’s population has never experienced air travel,” Bastian stated. “That’s why, as we continue to expand as an international airline, increasing the world’s access to travel isn’t just an opportunity – it’s our responsibility. We live in a divided world, which is why what we do at Delta is so important. Our job isn’t to transport people. It’s to bring them together.”
Julie Kitcher, Airbus Chief Sustainability Officer and Communications, highlighted the significance of the collaboration: “At Airbus, we pioneer sustainable aerospace for a safe and united world. With Delta, we are redefining the future of aviation. By leveraging our combined expertise, we are accelerating groundbreaking innovations—from advancing cutting-edge flight techniques to scaling up the production of renewable fuels (SAF). Together, we are addressing today’s challenges and shaping a more connected, lower carbon future for generations of travelers to come.”
The partnership was announced alongside Delta’s centenary celebrations, which featured an interactive exhibit at the SPHERE arena in downtown Las Vegas. Attendees experienced a 360-degree world animation showcasing five planes that represent the evolution of aviation over Delta’s 100-year history. The exhibit highlighted Delta’s extensive Airbus fleet, currently operating 492 commercial aircraft with an additional 202 on order, underscoring the airline’s strong relationship with Airbus.
The ‘UpNext’ program signifies a major step forward in Delta’s strategic plan to enhance operational efficiency and sustainability. By collaborating with Airbus, Delta aims to stay at the forefront of aviation innovation, ensuring that the airline can meet future challenges while providing exceptional travel experiences.
As Delta Air Lines celebrates its 100th anniversary, the partnership with Airbus exemplifies the airline’s dedication to continuous improvement and sustainability. Together, they are poised to drive the next generation of aviation technologies, making air travel more efficient, sustainable, and accessible to people around the world.
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