United Airlines Ventures

United Airlines Ventures was established in 2021 to invest in early-stage startups shaping the future of aerospace, aviation infrastructure, and technology. The corporate venture arm of United Airlines is based in Chicago, Illinois, and has deployed over $200 million to date. UAV focuses on next-generation air traffic control, aviation infrastructure, energy transition, and AI-driven travel innovation. The firm is led by Managing Partner Mukul Hariharan, a former investment banker and commercial pilot who also heads UAV's Sustainable Flight Fund. The investment team combines finance and aviation operating backgrounds, including a United test pilot and retired Air Force test pilot who leads technical due diligence on advanced aviation and propulsion investments. Portfolio companies include Archer Aviation, ZeroAvia, Heart Aerospace, and CLEAR, spanning electric and hydrogen aviation, sustainable fuel, and airport technology. UAV's investment approach centers on strategic alignment with United's own operational needs, prioritizing startups that can integrate directly with the airline's infrastructure and sustainability goals rather than pursuing purely financial returns.