JetZero’s aircraft design reduces drag and improves lift across its entire wingspan
Aiming to drive innovation, United Airlines has invested in JetZero, a start-up, with a goal of developing blended wing body (BWB) aircraft.
In a press statement, United Airlines says that the agreement includes a potential to order up to 100 aircraft, with an option for an additional 100, contingent on meeting key development milestones, such as the successful flight of a full-scale demonstrator in 2027.
It adds that JetZero’s aircraft design reduces drag and improves lift across its entire wingspan, offering up to a 50 pc reduction in fuel burn per passenger mile compared to traditional aircraft of similar size.
United Airlines says that this technology has the potential to help reduce its carbon emissions and operational costs.
Tom O’Leary
“United’s investment in our company signals the industry’s belief that new, innovative technology is needed in order to achieve the efficiency and cost savings that will be required to meet the continued growth in demand for air travel across the globe. JetZero is focussed on one key technology, the airframe that enables us to address all of the barriers to growth. This program is the only one in development today that promises efficiency and an elevated customer experience,” says Tom O’Leary, CEO, Co-Founder, JetZero.
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As per a press statement, the American airline says that the design of JetZero’s Z4 aircraft simultaneously addresses operational inefficiencies while offering enhanced passenger experience features. For instance, a flight from New York to Palma de Mallorca in Spain is expected to use up to 45 pc less fuel compared to existing twin-aisle aircraft on the same route. Additionally, the aircraft is designed to integrate into current airport infrastructure without requiring changes to jet bridges, runways, or taxiways.
According to the press statement, United Airlines says that to enhance the passenger experience, the Z4 will provide flexible seating options, larger seats across all classes, and dedicated overhead bin space for each passenger. The aircraft’s main boarding door will be wider than those of similar-sized aircraft, allowing for multiple aisles and more efficient passenger distribution. It will also include wider aisles and accessible lavatories, promoting improved accessibility for all passengers.
As per a press statement, the airline says its corporate venture arm has invested in emerging technologies with the potential to transform the future of travel. United Airlines Ventures (UAV) has also invested in hybrid-electric, hydrogen-powered, and electric vertical take-off and landing aircraft, all of which align with the airline’s goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050.
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Andrew Chang
“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. United Airlines Ventures was created to support our efforts to find innovative companies that can enhance the customer travel experience and help the airline lower its carbon footprint, and we believe JetZero reflects that philosophy,” says Andrew Chang, Head United Airlines Ventures (UAV).
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