Pratt & Whitney Executive Recognized for Sustainability Efforts

A new Frontier Airlines aircraft powered by Pratt & Whitney engines is honoring a sustainable aviation pioneer in a special way. 

Maria the Bald Eagle, an Airbus A321neo wrapped in Frontier’s signature bald eagle livery, is the airline’s second to feature Pratt and Whitney’s geared turbofan engines.

It was named after Maria Della Posta, the president of Pratt & Whitney Canada and the first woman to lead a business unit at the company.

Frontier took delivery last year of Frederick the Bald Eagle, which was named as a tribute to Pratt & Whitney founder Frederick Rentschler.

The GTF engine is notable for its sustainability—reducing fuel consumption, CO₂ and NOx emissions, and noise footprint. 

Sustainability Goals

Della Posta joined Pratt & Whitney Canada more than 35 years ago and has been instrumental in driving a focus on sustainability. 

Pratt officials said she always challenges others to think about the next generation of products.

Della Posta said she was honored and proud of the efforts of employees from both companies to move aviation toward net zero carbon emissions by 2050.

“At Pratt & Whitney, we seek not just to be the best engine supplier in the world, but also the best for the world.”

Pratt & Whitney’s Maria Della Posta

“At Pratt & Whitney, we seek not just to be the best engine supplier in the world, but also the best for the world,” she said. 

Frontier Airlines president and CEO Barry Biffle said Pratt & Whitney’s partnership was critical to their green energy mission.

“Frontier is proud to take delivery of our second A321neo, powered by Pratt & Whitney’s GTF engines,” he said.

“These revolutionary engines are helping us to achieve our very important sustainability goals.”