North Carolina is set to announce the establishment of a manufacturing site for a blended-wing-body aircraft, widely expected to be led by California-based JetZero, although the company has not officially confirmed its involvement. Scheduled for a significant announcement on June 12, local officials are likely to disclose that the facility will be located at Greensboro’s Piedmont Triad International Airport.
JetZero, known for its innovative development of the Z4 aircraft, which features twin turbofans mounted on its upper aft fuselage, has been considering several states for the production site. Reports indicate that North Carolina was one of the finalists for this initiative. The Z4 is anticipated to offer a range of approximately 5,000 nautical miles and accommodate 200-250 passengers while being fuel-efficient, consuming half the fuel of current airliners. JetZero aims to have a demonstrator flying by 2027, with commercial entry projected in the 2030s.
This recent endeavor aligns with North Carolina’s ongoing commitment to fostering aerospace development. The state previously invested in a production site for Boom Supersonic’s Overture aircraft, which completed construction last year, although that project is still in development.
With a robust history of attracting ambitious aerospace ventures, Greensboro continues to position itself as a significant player in the industry. This latest announcement not only reflects the growing confidence in North Carolina’s aerospace sector but also promises an exciting future with potential job creation and technological advancements in aviation.
The anticipated development represents a hopeful step towards a more sustainable future in air travel, showcasing innovation in aircraft design and engineering.