Conventional jet engines rely on fossil fuels, which are limited in efficiency and produce significant greenhouse gas emissions. This contributes to environmental concerns and regulatory pressures to reduce carbon footprints.

Advanced propulsion systems, such as electric or hybrid-electric engines, face challenges in providing sufficient power while maintaining a weight that is viable for flight. Reducing the weight of batteries and improving their energy storage capabilities are critical hurdles.

While sustainable aviation fuels (SAFs) and battery-electric systems are being developed, they currently struggle with energy density issues. SAFs are not yet available at scale, and batteries can’t store enough energy for long-haul flights without significantly increasing aircraft weight.