Delta Air Lines is partnering with California-based start-up JetZero to design a more fuel-efficient blended-wing-body aircraft that will cut emissions by about half.
JetZero is now the newest member of Delta’s Sustainable Skies Lab, receiving direct support from the airline to develop the future of aviation. The start-up received a grant from the U.S. Air Force in 2023 to help build a demonstrator of the BWB aircraft for a test flight in 2027.
The BWB-style aircraft will not resemble traditional aircraft: instead of the tube-style design, it will feature a more triangular shape and resemble something akin to a futuristic spacecraft.
Rendering of a seat inside the JetZero blended-wing-body aircraft, designed by Delta. (Photo Credit: JetZero)
“Working with JetZero to realize an entirely new airframe and experience for customers and employees is bold and important work to advance the airline industry’s fuel saving initiatives and innovation goals,” said Amelia DeLuca, Delta’s Chief Sustainability Officer. “While Delta is focused on doing what we can today to address our carbon footprint, it’s critical we also work with a variety of partners to advance revolutionary technologies, like JetZero’s blended-wing-body aircraft, to solve for a significant portion of future aviation emissions.”
The partnership aligns with Delta’s net zero carbon emissions target for 2050.
BWB aircraft was first tested in the 1990s by NASA and Standard University. JetZero’s BWB aircraft will be able to fly using sustainable aviation fuel. It should be able to carry over 250 passengers and may be quieter than traditional aircraft of today.
“JetZero is working to change the world by bringing to market an aircraft that aims to fly this decade and make immediate and marked progress toward reducing airline energy costs, and the associated emissions,” said Tom O’Leary, JetZero cofounder and CEO. “The ability to realize such significant efficiency gains in the near future meaningfully impacts the industry’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 and will serve as the foundation on which other technologies and efficiencies can be realized. Delta was one of the first carriers to partner with us, supporting us behind the scenes since 2023, and we look forward to their continued support of our program through their deep knowledge and expertise.”
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