easyJet and JetZero partner to develop blended wing body aircraft for commercial aviation
easyJet has partnered with JetZero to develop an innovative blended-wing aircraft, promising up to 50% lower fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions compared to traditional tube-and-wing designs. These future aircrafts also hold the potential to be hydrogen-powered.
As part of the collaboration, easyJet will contribute its expertise in hydrogen propulsion technology, gained through years of research with other industry players. The airline will also explore the use of the blended-wing design as a platform for hydrogen-powered engines. Additionally, easyJet will join JetZero’s new Airline Working Group, which focuses on addressing practical airline and airport operational challenges to enhance the aircraft’s overall performance.
JetZero’s blended-wing body aircraft has already earned support from key institutions like the U.S. Air Force, NASA, and the FAA, with the first model expected to enter service by 2030. Alaska Airlines recently became the first airline to invest in JetZero’s project.
The blended-wing design is a significant leap in commercial aviation, improving aerodynamic efficiency with its aerofoil-shaped body and slender wings. This innovation could reduce the need for sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) by up to 50% per passenger, lowering transition costs. Its unique structure also supports hydrogen storage with minimal impact on passenger capacity, making it a promising solution for adopting zero-emission fuels and accelerating the industry’s move toward carbon-neutral aviation.
“The blended-wing aircraft design offers the potential to maximise efficiencies and significantly reduce fuel burn and emissions in the process,” David Morgan, Chief Operating Officer of easyJet, said. “Its potential to be powered by SAF or hydrogen in the future is also incredibly exciting and we look forward to working with JetZero over the coming years alongside our other partners to achieve our joint ambition to deliver a more sustainable pathway for the aviation industry.”
“JetZero’s blended wing body configuration delivers what the industry most needs today: lower fuel burn, lower emissions and a viable path to zero carbon emissions. We welcome easyJet to the Airline Working Group and look forward to furthering the work of incorporating hydrogen,” said Tom O’Leary, CEO and cofounder of JetZero.
