United Airlines invests in JetZero

On 24 April 2025, United Airlines announced it has decided to invest in JetZero. This start-up is currently developing a blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft dubbed the Z4. Part of the investment is a purchase agreement for 100 Z4s with options on another 100. The agreement is, however, conditional to JetZero achieving development milestones.

JetZero was founded in 2021. It received an investment from the USAF in 2023 for the development of a BWB-prototype. The company is planning to be able to launch a full-scale demonstrator of the Z4 in 2027, with entry into commercial service in 2030.

A blended-wing-body design tackles a few current airplane design issues. Thanks to integrating the fuselage with the wing, the aircraft can fly higher and significantly reduce fuel burn. According to studies done by JetZero, the Z4, with 250 passengers on board, would burn 45% less fuel on a flight from New York to Palma de Mallorca.

JetZero is also planning to design its Z4 to be able to fit within the limits of current airport infrastructure, mitigating the need for expensive construction work to accomodate the BWB.

Next to investments from United Airlines and the USAF, JetZero has also received investments from Alaska Airlines. This airline has also signaled intent to acquire the Z4 but no number has been mentioned.

Illustration by United Airlines.