Alaska Airlines announced an investment in JetZero, a company developing a new Blended Wing Body (BWB) aircraft that will burn up to 50% less fuel and produce fewer emissions. This investment reflects Alaska’s commitment to advancing new technologies that will benefit the future of aviation, including those that will enable airlines to achieve net-zero carbon emissions. Alaska invested in JetZero’s Series A last year and is the first airline to do so.
This investment, which includes options for future aircraft orders, was made through Alaska Star Ventures (ASV), the airline’s investment arm whose goal is to influence the future of the aviation industry. And ASV is focused on identifying and enabling the technologies that could help Alaska achieve its ambitious goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. This goal is part of Alaska’s sustainability strategy, which includes operational efficiency, fleet renewal, sustainable aviation fuel, waste reduction and electrified aircraft.
JetZero’s BWB aircraft features an innovative design that integrates the wing and fuselage into a single smooth shape, significantly reducing drag. With an expected 50% fuel saving compared to the current tube and wing design, the BWB will potentially reduce carbon emissions and operating costs.
The aircraft’s spacious interior allows for innovative seating arrangements that benefit passenger comfort, such as a quieter and more pleasant flight experience. Its unique shape will significantly reduce weight and drag and promises to contribute to a more sustainable future of aviation.
KEY QUOTES:
“At Alaska, we are always looking for ways to innovate and shape the future of air travel for our guests, employees and the industry. We are proud to invest in JetZero’s development of this innovative next-generation aircraft, which brings a significant advancement in fuel efficiency. We and JetZero share a vision for more sustainable aviation and are excited to work with them to shape that future.”
- Diana Birkett Rakow, Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Sustainability at Alaska Airlines
“The biggest challenge facing airlines is reducing fuel burn and emissions. Of all the great new technologies being worked on, the BWB design has by far the greatest impact. Airlines will see immediate benefits in the form of cost savings, dramatically reduced emissions and an improved customer experience compared to aircraft flying today. We are excited to welcome Alaska to our team of innovators and are confident this aircraft will reshape aviation.”
- Tom O’Leary, CEO and co-founder of JetZero
