CHICAGO - United Airlines in Chicago has announced an investment in JetZero in Long Beach, Calif., a startup developing blended wing body (BWB) aircraft. The investment includes a conditional agreement to purchase up to 100 aircraft, with an option for an additional 100, contingent upon JetZero meeting key milestones, including the flight of a full-scale demonstrator by 2027.
JetZero’s Z4 aircraft design minimizes drag by distributing lift along the entire wingspan, potentially reducing fuel consumption per passenger mile by as much as 50 percent compared to similarly sized planes. The aircraft, designed for 250 passengers, will operate on conventional jet fuel and sustainable aviation fuel blends.
"If successful, JetZero has the potential to evolve our core mainline business by developing aircraft with a bigger, more comfortable cabin experience for our customers while increasing fuel efficiency across our network," said Andrew Chang, head of United Airlines Ventures (UAV).
Delta, JetZero partner on efficient blended-wing aircraft
USAF connection
In 2023, the U.S. Air Force awarded JetZero a $235 million contract to accelerate the demonstrator’s development. The company’s airframe design also has military applications, including air transport and refueling variants.
JetZero CEO Tom O’Leary said United’s investment "signals the industry's belief that new, innovative technology is needed" to meet growing air travel demand while addressing efficiency and environmental goals.
The Z4 is designed to integrate with existing airport infrastructure and offer passenger-friendly features, including flexible seating, larger seats, wider aisles, handicap-accessible lavatories, and faster boarding through a wider main door. JetZero estimates that a flight from New York to Palma de Mallorca, Spain, could use up to 45 percent less fuel compared to current twin-aisle aircraft.
