Delta Air Lines and JetZero partner to design the future of air travel
By Teodor Stefan
JetZero’s more fuel efficient blended-wing-body (BWB) design is at the center of the collaboration and is one facet of Delta’s journey to advance industry innovation, drive down cost through increased fuel-savings and achieve net-zero emissions by 2050.
On the heels of the airline celebrating 100 years of flight, the partnership underscores Delta’s commitment to shape what the future of flight looks like for centuries to come. Delta’s formal partnership with JetZero comes after the start-up received a grant from the U.S. Air Force in 2023 to help facilitate building a full-scale demonstrator for first flight in 2027. Delta will play a crucial role in the development by providing the operational expertise to help make this technology viable.
The leading global airline will also help design an interior experience of the future to ensure a best-in-class customer and employee experience. The uniquely shaped airframe, that differs from today’s tube-and-wing shape, offers endless possibilities. With Delta at the helm of designing the interiors, customers can expect changes that enhance their experience, including dedicated overhead bin space for each passenger, accessible seats and lavatories, and fewer rows.
JetZero’s BWB aircraft are expected to include a slate of revolutionary benefits for consumers and for environmental sustainability including:
- The BWB is up to 50% more fuel efficient than conventional tube-and-wing airframes on the market due to the design, which creates less drag, provides more lifting surface area, provides even load and lift distribution, and overall is markedly lighter in weight.
- Capacity to carry more than 250 customers – which is similar to existing widebody aircraft – to provide the level of capacity and range needed to meet growing travel demand.
- Less noise. With engines mounted on top of the aircraft, BWB aircraft are expected to be significantly quieter than existing aircraft.
- The potential to fit into existing airport infrastructure and offer faster turn-around times – areas Delta is exploring and advising on.
- Utilizing SAF to further decrease lifecycle carbon emissions.
