Alaska Airlines has announced an investment in JetZero, a company working on a new blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft. This aircraft is expected to reduce fuel burn and emissions by up to 50%. Alaska’s investment demonstrates its commitment to advancing new aviation technology, particularly those that contribute to the airline’s goal of achieving net zero carbon emissions. Last year, Alaska became the first airline to invest in JetZero as part of the company’s Series A funding round.
The investment, which also includes options for future aircraft orders, was made through Alaska Star Ventures (ASV), the airline’s investment arm. ASV’s main objective is to shape the future of the aviation industry by identifying and supporting technologies that can help Alaska achieve its ambitious goal of net zero carbon emissions by 2040. This investment is just one part of Alaska’s comprehensive sustainability strategy, which includes focusing on operational efficiency, fleet renewal, sustainable aviation fuel, waste reduction, and electrified aircraft.
“At Alaska, we are always looking for ways to innovate and shape the future of air travel for our guests, employees, and industry,” said Diana Birkett Rakow, senior vice president of public affairs and sustainability at Alaska Airlines. “We are proud to invest in JetZero’s development of this innovative next-generation aircraft, with a significant step-change in fuel efficiency. We and JetZero share a vision for more sustainable aviation, and we are excited to partner with them in creating that future.”
JetZero’s BWB aircraft features an innovative design that combines the wings and fuselage into a single smooth shape, reducing aerodynamic drag. This design is expected to reduce fuel consumption by 50% compared to traditional tube-and-wing designs, resulting in lower carbon emissions and operating costs. The spacious interior allows for innovative seating arrangements, improving passenger comfort and providing a quieter and more enjoyable flying experience. Additionally, the unique shape of the aircraft significantly reduces weight and drag, showing promise for a more sustainable future in aviation.
“The biggest challenge for airlines is lowering fuel burn and emissions. Of all the great new technologies in work, the BWB design delivers the biggest impact by far. Airlines will see immediate benefit in cost savings, dramatically lower emissions and improved customer experience, compared to airplanes flying today,” said Tom O’Leary, CEO and co-founder, JetZero. “We’re thrilled to welcome Alaska to our team of innovators, and our belief that this aircraft will reshape aviation.”
While the BWB design is not new, JetZero has demonstrated exceptional leadership by closely collaborating with the United States Air Force, NASA, and the FAA to develop its revolutionary blended wing aircraft and ultimately bring it to market.
