United Invests in JetZero Blended Wing Aircraft

United Airlines has invested in California-based JetZero, a startup developing blended wing body (BWB) aircraft aimed at reducing fuel consumption by up to 50% per passenger mile. United has agreed to purchase 100 of JetZero's Z4 aircraft, with an option for 100 more, contingent on key development milestones, including a full-scale demonstrator flight in 2027. The Z4, designed to carry up to 250 passengers, will support both conventional and sustainable aviation fuels and promises a more spacious cabin. JetZero is considering Greensboro, North Carolina, as a manufacturing site, potentially creating 10,000 jobs. The U.S. Air Force has awarded JetZero a $235 million contract to accelerate development, and other airlines such as Alaska, Delta, and EasyJet have expressed interest or formed partnerships. This move supports United's commitment to achieve net-zero carbon emissions by 2050 and highlights growing industry support for sustainable aviation.