#Sustainable Aviation Fuel #United Airlines #Twelve

United Airlines Invests in Sustainable Fuel Innovations

United Airlines is taking a bold step into the future of aviation by investing in Twelve, a pioneering company that focuses on creating sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) through an innovative carbon transformation technology. This investment is part of the United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight Fund, which aims to accelerate the decarbonization of air travel, marking a significant milestone in the aviation industry's push towards sustainability.

What is Twelve?

Founded with the mission to eliminate global emissions, Twelve specializes in converting carbon dioxide and renewable energy into hydrocarbons utilized in fuels, plastics, and other materials. Through a process similar to photosynthesis, Twelve's technology captures carbon from the air and combines it with hydrogen extracted from water, significantly reducing the reliance on fossil fuels.

The company's first production facility, AirPlant One, located in Moses Lake, Washington, is projected to begin operations soon and will produce 50,000 gallons of SAF annually. This facility and the technology behind it represent a shift towards a cleaner future in aviation, with potential to lower lifecycle emissions by up to 90% compared to conventional jet fuels.

A Historic Contract

Adding to the excitement surrounding this investment, Twelve has secured a monumental purchase agreement with a major European airline group. The deal, which spans 14 years, involves supplying 260 million gallons of SAF to five of their airlines, demonstrating the high demand for sustainable aviation solutions. This long-term contract not only underscores the quality of Twelve's innovative technology but also highlights the industry's readiness to move towards more environmentally friendly fuel alternatives.

Andrew Chang, head of United Airlines Ventures, emphasized, “Scaling the SAF industry is the major hurdle air travel needs to clear in order to increase the supply and reduce the price of lower carbon fuels.” The infusion of capital from United will empower Twelve to accelerate the commercialization of their technology and expand operations, addressing the urgent need for sustainable aviation solutions.

Funding Future Innovations

The investment in Twelve follows Twelve's recent Series C funding round, which raised $83 million, further establishing the company’s position as a leader in sustainable fuel innovation. This funding and United's backing give Twelve the financial flexibility required to not only enhance their operations but to innovate further in carbon transformation technologies. Nicholas Flanders, CEO of Twelve, stated,