JetZero Inc., a California-based aircraft manufacturer with innovative plans for fuel-efficient all-wing airplanes, has chosen North Carolina to establish its first factory. This $4.7 billion endeavor is anticipated to create over 14,500 high-paying jobs, marking one of the most significant job-creation projects in state history. The factory will be located at Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro and has received support from more than $1 billion in state economic incentives.
North Carolina’s Department of Commerce discussed JetZero’s plans during a special meeting where the Economic Investment Committee approved incentive packages totaling up to $1.57 billion. This includes a jobs grant worth around $1.02 billion, set to be distributed over 37 years contingent on the company’s investment and hiring targets. JetZero plans to complete its investment and recruitment by the end of 2036, aiming to significantly boost the state’s economy.
In addition to state incentives, Guilford County approved a separate incentive package valued at up to $76 million. The state’s concerted efforts to attract aviation jobs have successfully brought several aircraft manufacturers to the area in recent years, contributing to the development of an aviation hub.
If realized, JetZero’s factory workforce would exceed the population of many North Carolina municipalities and is expected to inject approximately $259 billion into the state’s economy, which had a gross domestic product of $845 billion as of late 2024.
However, it’s important to note that while JetZero has ambitious plans, its Z4 aircraft is still in developmental stages, with the first flight projected for 2027 and commercial service anticipated by 2030. Major airlines like United Airlines have expressed confidence by investing in JetZero and signaling potential orders, contingent on meeting key milestones.
The establishment of JetZero’s factory not only looks to create jobs but also aims to nurture a specialized workforce, with the average annual salary for employees expected to reach about $89,000. This generous compensation could attract talent beyond North Carolina’s labor pool, particularly as the company collaborates with local institutions such as Guilford Technical Community College to enhance workforce training programs.
This project reflects a hopeful transition toward a future of innovative aviation technology and economic growth in North Carolina, supporting both regional development and the aviation industry’s evolution.