NASA invests $11.5 million in sustainable aircraft research projects

NASA has awarded $11.5 million in research grants to five projects under its Advanced Aircraft Concepts for Environmental Sustainability 2050 (AACES) program. This initiative aims to develop innovative solutions for making air travel more sustainable. Among the recipients, Electra will enhance its existing electric aircraft prototype, while JetZero will explore a new hydrogen fuel source combined with a unique aircraft design. Other projects include research on new fuels and propulsion systems by Georgia Tech and Pratt and Whitney. Aurora Flight Sciences will conduct a broad exploration of aircraft technologies. Notably, no electric propulsion startups received funding, possibly due to their existing venture capital support or differing visions for aviation's future.