Sustainability: Air New Zealand commits to electric aircraft operations

Air New Zealand is taking some tangible steps to advance the introduction of electric aircraft in airline fleets - the airline has ordered at least one such aircraft to conduct a commercial demonstration programme.

Many airlines have expressed interest in electric aircraft, but only a small number have actually ordered any.

Air New Zealand has signed a deal for one firm order from US-based Beta Technologies, with options for two more and purchase rights for a further 20.

The first of the Beta aircraft will be used in a very limited role, and even if more are delivered they will still have a small presence within the broader domestic network.

But the project is not just for show - it will help the airline work out how electric aircraft will work within its systems, which will pave the way for larger, more advanced zero emissions aircraft the airline intends to order later.

Obviously, such aircraft are aimed at contributing to airlines' sustainability initiatives. They will eventually help airlines meet emissions reduction goals in certain roles, in tandem with sustainable aviation fuel in more conventional fleet types.