JetZero is a California-based startup developing an ultra-efficient blended wing body airliner that will have a significant leap in performance and fuel economy. They aim to offer disruptive technology, and with partners like the US Air Force, NASA, and the FAA, it is expected that their innovative design may enter service by 2030. The startup has taken a step towards the goal of achieving zero-carbon emissions by sustainable aircraft development.
BWB: A Sustainable Aircraft Configuration
The Blended Wing Body (BWB) configuration has a single wing-like structure with embedded space for the cabin. This configuration is aerodynamically more efficient compared to the current cylindrical fuselage. BWB is a tailless configuration, so the overall wetted area is reduced compared to the lifting area. “Our aircraft dramatically improves aerodynamic efficiency over traditional tube designs, which are fundamentally unstable and require large tail surfaces, creating yet more weight and drag,” claims the CEO of JetZero. Reduced size means a light-weight and fuel-efficient design. The aircraft offers the passenger capacity and range of a small, wide body but the propulsion requirements of a narrow-body plane.
What JetZero Offers
JetZero is committed to be disruptive in aviation sector and with their BWB design they are aiming to cut the fuel consumption by 50%. Moreover, their design offers following advantages on the conventional aircraft designs:
- Ultra Fuel Efficiency
- Compatibility with Existing Infrastructure
- Redefining the Cabin Experience
- Improved Noise Pollution
The existing wing-body configuration of airliners incorporates efficient engines and features like winglets that help reduce fuel consumption; however, these configurations have reached their performance limits. For sustainable aviation businesses, reducing fuel consumption not only reduces emissions but also makes it less expensive, considering the increasing fuel price. The BWB configuration has the capability to reduce emissions while improving the overall flying and cabin experience. The JetZero is also aiming to reduce turn times and operations for operators. Moreover, the location of engine mounting will guarantee a dramatic cut in noise emissions by 4-times compared to traditional airliners; JetZero claims.