Hey everyone, big news in the aviation world! Alaska Airlines is making headlines with its latest move. The airline has just taken a significant step by signing options for JetZero's innovative blended wing body (BWB) aircraft and investing in the California-based startup. This partnership signals Alaska Airlines' commitment to advancing technology and pushing the boundaries of aircraft design.
So, what’s the buzz about this BWB aircraft? Well, JetZero's BWB design represents a major leap forward in aviation technology. It’s a radical departure from the traditional tube-and-wing configuration we’re all used to. This new design aims to enhance fuel efficiency and reduce carbon emissions, aligning perfectly with Alaska Airlines' goal of achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2040.
Alaska Airlines has shown its support for JetZero from the early stages. They were actually the first airline to back the startup back in 2023 during its Series A financing round. This recent move to sign options for an undisclosed number of aircraft further solidifies their commitment. Diana Birkett Rakow, Alaska’s Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Sustainability, has praised the BWB as a groundbreaking aircraft that promises a substantial boost in fuel efficiency.
Here’s where things get even more exciting. JetZero’s BWB aircraft is not just any plane. Under an initial $235 million contract from the U.S. Defense Innovation Unit, JetZero is developing this aircraft with a focus on both commercial and military applications. The commercial version will target the mid-market sector, while a military variant could serve as a transport or tanker for the U.S. Air Force. The BWB is expected to be up to 50% more fuel-efficient than current aircraft of its class.
JetZero is already making strides with the BWB project. They’ve recently completed the preliminary design review for a full-scale demonstrator, which is set to be ready for flight tests by late 2026. This demonstrator will be about the size of a Boeing 767 but with a wingspan similar to an Airbus A330. The testing will be carried out in collaboration with Northrop Grumman and its prototyping subsidiary, Scaled Composites.
For Alaska Airlines, this investment is strategic. While they currently operate an all-Boeing fleet and are set to introduce the 737-10, the airline is preparing for future growth, potentially including widebody operations through their proposed merger with Hawaiian Airlines. This merger, if approved, will bring in additional aircraft, including Airbus A330-200s and 787-9s.
The specific version of the BWB Alaska has options on hasn’t been disclosed, but JetZero’s lineup includes the Z4 model for 170-290 passengers, as well as the Z3 and Z5 models for smaller and larger capacities, respectively.
In a related update, oversight for the BWB project has transitioned from the Defense Innovation Unit to the U.S. Air Force’s 763rd Enterprise Sourcing Squadron, which handles acquisitions for the Air Mobility Command.
This move by Alaska Airlines highlights their forward-thinking approach and commitment to sustainable aviation technology. It’s an exciting development and one to watch as JetZero continues to innovate and push the envelope in aircraft design. Stay tuned for more updates on this groundbreaking project!
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