Commercial Aviation
JetZero Invests 4.7B in Greensboro for Fuel Efficient Aircraft
JetZero’s 4.7B NC facility to produce blended-wing jets, creating 14,500 jobs and advancing sustainable aviation with 50% fuel efficiency gains.
In a bold move that could reshape the future of commercial aviation, JetZero has announced a $4.7 billion investment to build a state-of-the-art aircraft manufacturing facility in Greensboro, North Carolina. The facility will produce the company’s revolutionary blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft, a design that promises up to 50% better fuel efficiency compared to traditional aircraft. This decision marks a landmark moment not only for JetZero but also for the U.S. aerospace industry and the regional economy of North Carolina.
The project is expected to create over 14,500 jobs in the Greensboro area over the next decade, representing the largest economic development initiative in North Carolina’s history based on job commitments. With support from state and local governments, the facility will be located on the grounds of Piedmont Triad International Airport, positioning the region as a new hub for cutting-edge aerospace innovation.
JetZero’s venture into mass production of BWB aircraft also signals a broader industry shift toward sustainable aviation. As airlines and regulators push for lower emissions and greater fuel efficiency, JetZero’s Z4 jet could become a pivotal player in the next generation of commercial air travel.
The blended-wing-body design integrates the fuselage and wings into a single aerodynamic form, reducing drag and improving lift-to-drag ratios. Unlike traditional tube-and-wing aircraft, BWB jets like the JetZero Z4 offer a more efficient structure that supports both passenger capacity and fuel economy.
According to JetZero, the Z4 will accommodate approximately 250 passengers and feature a unique interior layout with six passenger bays and a central galley. Airlines will have the flexibility to configure cabins with no middle seats or family seating arrangements, enhancing the passenger experience.
This design has been studied for decades by aerospace engineers and institutions such as NASA, but commercial adoption has been limited due to manufacturing complexities and regulatory hurdles. JetZero’s initiative represents one of the first serious attempts to overcome these barriers at a commercial scale.
“JetZero’s move to establish a large-scale production facility for blended-wing-body aircraft is a landmark moment. If successful, it could redefine commercial aviation’s environmental footprint.” , Dr. Karen Mitchell, Aerospace Analyst
The Z4 aircraft is projected to deliver up to 50% fuel savings compared to current commercial aircraft, potentially transforming how airlines manage operating costs and emissions. Lower fuel consumption also means fewer greenhouse gas emissions, aligning with global sustainability targets such as net-zero by 2050.
JetZero’s design contributes to quieter takeoffs and landings due to its aerodynamic efficiency, which could help reduce noise pollution near airports. These advancements make the Z4 an attractive option for environmentally conscious carriers and regulators aiming to mitigate aviation’s environmental impact. Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines have all shown interest in JetZero’s technology. United, for instance, has already committed to a potential purchase of up to 200 aircraft, signaling strong market confidence in the Z4’s commercial viability.
JetZero plans to begin construction of its Greensboro facility in the first half of 2026, with the goal of flying a demonstrator model by 2027. Full-scale production is expected to ramp up by the early 2030s, with the factory eventually capable of producing up to 20 aircraft per month by the late 2030s.
The company’s timeline reflects a strategic approach: build, test, certify, and scale. With backing from major airlines and support from government agencies, JetZero is positioning itself as a long-term player in the sustainable aviation space.
Co-founders Tom O’Leary and Mark Page, both veterans in aerospace engineering, launched JetZero in 2021 with the vision of revolutionizing aircraft design. Their efforts have attracted both public and private sector interest, further solidifying the company’s credibility in a highly competitive industry.
JetZero’s investment is set to bring more than 14,500 jobs to the Greensboro area, spanning roles in engineering, advanced manufacturing, logistics, and administration. The project is being described by North Carolina Governor Josh Stein as the largest economic development initiative in the state’s history based on job creation.
In addition to direct employment, the project is expected to stimulate secondary economic activity, including the growth of local suppliers, service providers, and educational institutions offering aerospace-related training programs.
The state has committed over $1.1 billion in performance-based incentives spread over 40 years, contingent on JetZero meeting its job creation targets. An additional $450 million in infrastructure improvements is also planned to support the facility’s development.
The factory will be located on the grounds of Piedmont Triad International Airport, a site already home to other aerospace ventures, including Boom Supersonic. This strategic location offers several advantages, including access to existing aviation infrastructure and proximity to major transportation corridors. By choosing Greensboro, JetZero taps into a growing aerospace ecosystem in North Carolina. The state has been actively courting high-tech industries, offering a combination of skilled labor, favorable business conditions, and logistical advantages.
Local governments have also expressed strong support for the project, citing its potential to transform the region into a national center for aerospace innovation and manufacturing.
JetZero’s partnerships with major airlines like Delta and United not only validate its technology but also provide crucial operational insights for aircraft development. Delta, for example, is contributing expertise in cabin design and operational logistics to help refine the Z4’s commercial readiness.
These collaborations are essential for navigating the complex certification process required for commercial aircraft. By working with established carriers, JetZero can align its development roadmap with real-world airline needs and regulatory expectations.
Industry observers believe that JetZero’s success could catalyze further investment in sustainable aviation technologies, from hydrogen propulsion to electric aircraft. The company’s bold approach may set a precedent for how innovation is scaled in a traditionally conservative industry.
JetZero’s $4.7 billion investment in Greensboro represents more than just a new factory,it marks a pivotal step toward transforming the future of air travel. With its innovative blended-wing-body design, the Z4 jet promises significant gains in fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and environmental sustainability. The project also brings profound economic benefits to North Carolina, positioning the state as a leader in aerospace innovation.
As the aviation industry grapples with mounting pressure to reduce emissions and modernize fleets, JetZero’s initiative could serve as a blueprint for future aircraft development. If the company succeeds in scaling its vision, it may not only redefine aircraft design but also help chart a more sustainable path for global aviation.
What is a blended-wing-body aircraft? How many jobs will JetZero create in North Carolina? When will the JetZero Z4 be ready for commercial service?
JetZero’s $4.7B Investment in Greensboro: A New Era for Aviation and Regional Growth
The Blended-Wing-Body Revolution
What Makes the BWB Design So Different?
Fuel Efficiency and Environmental Impact
Prototype Development and Production Timeline
Economic and Regional Implications
Job Creation and Economic Development
Strategic Location at Piedmont Triad International Airport
Partnerships and Industry Momentum
Conclusion
FAQ
A blended-wing-body (BWB) aircraft merges the wings and fuselage into a single aerodynamic shape, reducing drag and improving fuel efficiency.
JetZero’s project is expected to create over 14,500 jobs in the Greensboro area by 2036, making it the largest job-creation initiative in the state’s history.
JetZero aims to fly a demonstrator by 2027 and bring the Z4 into commercial service in the early 2030s.
Sources
Photo Credit: JetZero
Route Development
Chicago O’Hare Launches Orchard-Inspired Concourse D Expansion
O’Hare International Airport’s $1.3B Concourse D with orchard-inspired design and 19 flexible gates is set to open in late 2028.
This article is based on an official press release from the City of Chicago.
On Thursday, February 5, 2026, Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson and the Chicago Department of Aviation (CDA) released a detailed animated preview of “The New Concourse D” at O’Hare International Airports. Formerly known as Satellite Concourse 1, this $1.3 billion infrastructure project represents a pivotal phase in the airport’s massive ORDNext expansion program.
According to the official announcement, the new facility is currently under construction following a groundbreaking ceremony in August 2025. Scheduled to open to the public in late 2028, Concourse D is designed to modernize the passenger experience with a focus on wellness, natural light, and operational flexibility. The project is being led by the architectural firm Skidmore, Owings & Merrill (SOM), alongside partners Ross Barney Architects and Juan Gabriel Moreno Architects (JGMA).
The newly released video highlights a dramatic shift in design philosophy for the airport, moving away from industrial aesthetics toward a “nature-infused” environment that pays homage to the site’s history.
The central theme of the new concourse is a direct nod to O’Hare’s pre-aviation history as an apple orchard, originally known as Orchard Field, which gave the airport its “ORD” IATA code. The City of Chicago press release details how the interior architecture features tree-like structural columns that branch out to support the roof, creating a canopy effect intended to reduce travel stress.
A key feature of the design is the “Oculus,” a central skylight that serves as the building’s architectural focal point. The design team emphasizes that this feature is not merely aesthetic but functional, directing natural daylight deep into the building to aid in intuitive wayfinding.
“We designed the new satellite concourse to create a frictionless experience for travelers… The gate lounges feature column-free expanses for easy wayfinding, high ceilings to optimize views, and a daylighting strategy to help align the body’s natural rhythms.”
, Scott Duncan, Design Partner at SOM
The facility will include over 20,000 square feet of airline lounge space and 30,000 square feet dedicated to retail and concessions. In a move to accommodate modern traveler needs, the design also incorporates a dedicated children’s play area and multi-level communal seating equipped with integrated charging stations. Beyond the aesthetics, Concourse D is a critical component of the broader ORDNext (formerly O’Hare 21) capital program. The expansion is necessary to maintain O’Hare’s status as a global hub by increasing gate capacity and flexibility.
According to the CDA, the concourse will add 19 new flexible gates to the airport’s portfolio. These gates are designed with versatility in mind, capable of accommodating:
This flexibility allows the airport to adjust to shifting market demands between domestic and international travel without requiring physical construction changes.
“By breaking ground on Concourse D, we are taking a critical first step toward enhancing how the airport welcomes and serves more than 80 million passengers each year.”
, Michael McMurray, CDA Commissioner
Mayor Brandon Johnson emphasized the economic impact of the project, noting that it serves as an economic engine for the region. The city estimates the project will create approximately 3,800 construction jobs.
The rebranding of “Satellite 1” to “Concourse D” and the release of this high-fidelity animation signal a clear intent by Chicago officials to solidify the project’s identity before the steel rises significantly. By leaning heavily into the “Orchard” narrative, the CDA is attempting to differentiate O’Hare from other sterile, glass-and-steel global hubs.
From an operational standpoint, the “flexible gate” configuration is the most significant detail. As airline fleets evolve and the mix between wide-body international haulers and narrow-body domestic hoppers fluctuates, static gates can become liabilities. The ability to park two narrow-bodies in the footprint of one wide-body maximizes the return on Investments for this $1.3 billion asset, ensuring it remains relevant regardless of how airline strategies shift in the 2030s.
The project is currently active, with construction managed by the joint venture AECOM Hunt Clayco Bowa. The timeline provided by the city outlines the following key milestones:
Concourse D is located just south of the existing Concourse C (Terminal 1) and will be connected via a new walkway extension. It serves as the precursor to the eventual demolition of Terminal 2, which will make way for the future O’Hare Global Terminal.
Where is the new Concourse D located? When will Concourse D open? Why is it called the “Orchard” design? How much will the project cost?
O’Hare Unveils “Orchard-Inspired” Vision for New Concourse D
Design Philosophy: Returning to the Orchard
Operational Capacity and ORDNext Strategy
AirPro News Analysis
Timeline and Next Steps
Frequently Asked Questions
It is located directly south of the existing Concourse C at Terminal 1. It will be connected to the main terminal complex via a new walkway extension.
The City of Chicago and the Chicago Department of Aviation have scheduled the opening for late 2028.
The design pays tribute to “Orchard Field,” the original name of the airfield that became O’Hare. The interior columns resemble trees, and the layout emphasizes nature and light.
The budget for Concourse D is set at $1.3 billion.
Sources
Photo Credit: City of Chicago
Aircraft Orders & Deliveries
EgyptAir Receives First Airbus A350-900 to Modernize Fleet
EgyptAir accepts its first Airbus A350-900, starting a fleet overhaul with 16 aircraft to expand long-haul routes and improve efficiency.
This article is based on an official press release from Airbus and additional fleet data.
EgyptAir has officially taken delivery of its first Airbus A350-900, registered as SU-GGE, marking a significant milestone in the carrier’s modernization strategy. The handover, which took place on February 9, 2026, positions the Cairo-based airline as the first operator of the A350-900 in North Africa.
According to an official press release from Airbus, this aircraft is the first of 16 A350-900s ordered by the Egyptian flag carrier. The delivery underscores EgyptAir’s commitment to phasing out older wide-body jets while expanding its long-haul network capabilities to new destinations in North America and Asia.
The arrival of the A350-900 represents a pivotal shift in EgyptAir’s long-haul operations. The airline originally signed for 10 aircraft during the Dubai Airshow in November 2023, later expanding the commitment with a top-up order for six additional units. These new airframes are intended to replace the carrier’s aging Boeing 777-300ER fleet, offering improved operating economics and passenger comfort.
In a statement regarding the initial order, Yehia Zakaria, EgyptAir Holding Chairman and CEO, highlighted the flagship status of the new type:
“The A350-900 will be our flagship aircraft… adding the world’s most modern and efficient widebody aircraft to our fleet will be instrumental in expanding our offering.”
Christian Scherer, Chief Commercial Officer at Airbus, noted the economic advantages the aircraft brings to the airline’s network:
“The A350 is the one and only aircraft enabling EgyptAir to open up its network with benchmark economic efficiency, not to mention passenger comfort.”
EgyptAir has outlined a phased entry-into-service plan for the new fleet. Initially, the aircraft will be deployed on trunk routes to London and Paris to facilitate crew familiarization. Following this integration period, the airline plans to leverage the A350’s 9,700 nautical mile range to launch non-stop services to the U.S. West Coast and key Asian markets, including Shanghai, Beijing, and Tokyo.
The new A350-900 features a two-class configuration designed to maximize capacity while introducing updated premium amenities. According to fleet data, the aircraft accommodates a total of 340 passengers. Technological upgrades are a focal point of the new cabin. The aircraft is equipped with Panasonic Avionics’ Astrova in-flight entertainment system, providing 4K OLED screens and high-fidelity audio. Additionally, passengers across all classes will have access to USB-C fast charging ports and high-speed Wi-Fi connectivity.
The transition to the A350-900 aligns with broader industry sustainability goals. Powered by two Rolls-Royce Trent XWB engines, the aircraft is reported to burn 25% less fuel compared to the previous generation aircraft it replaces. This efficiency gain corresponds to a 25% reduction in CO2 emissions.
Furthermore, the A350 is recognized as the quietest aircraft in its class, possessing a noise footprint 50% smaller than older jets, a critical factor for operations at noise-sensitive airports in Europe and North America.
EgyptAir’s delivery secures its position as the sole active operator of the A350-900 in the North African region, a status solidified by the shifting strategies of its neighbors. While other carriers in the region had previously expressed interest in the type, market dynamics have led to cancellations and delays.
For instance, Air Algérie cancelled its order for A350-1000s in early 2025, opting instead for Airbus A330-900neos. Similarly, Tunisair cancelled its A350 commitments in 2013. Other regional orders, such as those from Libyan carriers Afriqiyah Airways and Libyan Airlines, remain stalled due to long-standing instability. Consequently, EgyptAir currently faces no direct regional competition operating this specific airframe, potentially offering it a product advantage on competitive routes connecting Africa to Europe and the Americas.
Sources:
EgyptAir Accepts Delivery of First Airbus A350-900, Initiating Major Fleet Overhaul
Fleet Modernization and Strategic Expansion
Operational Deployment
Cabin Configuration and Passenger Experience
Environmental Performance
AirPro News Analysis: Regional Market Context
Airbus Press Release
Photo Credit: Airbus
Route Development
SAS and TAROM Codeshare Connects Scandinavia and Romania in 2026
SAS and TAROM announce a codeshare agreement effective February 2026, enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania with SkyTeam benefits.
This article is based on an official press release from SAS Group.
Scandinavian Airlines (SAS) and TAROM, the flag carrier of Romania, have announced a comprehensive codeshare agreement set to commence on February 9, 2026. The partnership aims to restore and enhance connectivity between Northern Europe and Romania following SAS’s strategic shift to the SkyTeam alliance.
According to the official announcement from SAS Group, the agreement will allow passengers to book single-ticket journeys between the two regions by utilizing major European transit hubs. This move integrates TAROM, a long-standing SkyTeam member, more deeply with SAS, which officially joined the alliance on September 1, 2024.
The collaboration addresses a significant gap in network connectivity, offering business and leisure travelers seamless baggage check-through and reciprocal loyalty benefits. Paul Verhagen, EVP & Chief Commercial Officer at SAS, emphasized the strategic value of the deal in a statement:
“This new partnership with TAROM marks an important step in enhancing connectivity between Scandinavia and Romania. By combining our networks and offering smooth transfers via key European hubs, we are giving our customers more choice, flexibility, and convenience.”
Rather than launching direct flights immediately, the airlines are leveraging a “virtual hub” strategy. According to the press release, the codeshare will route traffic through four key intermediate airports: Amsterdam (AMS), Brussels (BRU), Frankfurt (FRA), and Prague (PRG).
Under the terms of the agreement:
This structure allows the airlines to offer competitive travel times and frequency without dedicating aircraft to direct point-to-point routes, which are currently dominated by low-cost carriers.
This agreement is a direct consequence of the major airline alliance realignment that occurred in late 2024. When SAS departed Star Alliance to join SkyTeam, it lost its traditional connectivity to Eastern Europe provided by partners like Lufthansa and Austrian Airlines. Partnering with TAROM allows SAS to rebuild its footprint in the region using SkyTeam infrastructure.
For TAROM, the deal unlocks access to the high-yield Scandinavian market. The Romanian carrier is currently in the midst of a fleet modernization program, transitioning from aging aircraft to new Boeing 737 MAX 8 jets expected to arrive in late 2025 and 2026. By utilizing SAS for the northern leg of the journey, TAROM can expand its network reach while conserving its own metal for other high-demand routes. Narcis Obeadă, Commercial Director at TAROM, hinted at further expansion in the company’s statement:
“In the coming period, TAROM will announce new commercial agreements, in line with the company’s mission to safely and efficiently connect Romania and Romanian culture to the international air transport network.”
Travelers utilizing the codeshare will benefit from the full suite of SkyTeam alliance perks. Members of SAS EuroBonus and TAROM’s loyalty program will be able to earn and redeem points on these codeshare flights. Additionally, premium passengers will gain access to SkyTeam lounges at transit hubs.
The passenger experience on the SAS leg of these journeys is also set for an upgrade. SAS is currently rolling out free high-speed Starlink WiFi across its fleet, a project the airline states will be widely available by late 2025.
The “Prague” Anomaly and Market Positioning
The inclusion of Prague (PRG) as a connection hub is a notable operational detail. Following the cessation of operations by Czech Airlines (CSA) as a standalone SkyTeam member in October 2024, Prague is no longer a primary alliance hub. The decision to route traffic through PRG suggests a strong bilateral interline capability between SAS and TAROM that functions independently of major alliance hub infrastructure.
Furthermore, this deal clearly targets the premium business segment. While low-cost carrier Wizz Air operates direct flights between Bucharest and Copenhagen, legacy carriers cannot compete purely on price. Instead, SAS and TAROM are competing on schedule flexibility (multiple daily frequencies via hubs) and corporate perks (lounge access, baggage interlining). With tourism to Romania rising, foreign arrivals were up 13.4% year-on-year as of August 2024, the demand for reliable, full-service connectivity is likely to grow.
When can I book these codeshare flights? Will my bags be checked through to the final destination? Do these flights count toward SkyTeam Elite status?
SAS and TAROM Launch Strategic Codeshare to Connect Scandinavia and Romania
Operational Details: The Virtual Hub Strategy
RO marketing code on SAS flights connecting Copenhagen, Oslo, and Stockholm to these intermediate hubs.SK marketing code on TAROM flights connecting Bucharest to the same hubs.Strategic Context: The SkyTeam Realignment
Passenger Experience and Loyalty
AirPro News Analysis
Frequently Asked Questions
The codeshare agreement is effective starting February 9, 2026. Tickets should be available through both airlines’ booking channels prior to this date.
Yes. Because this is a full codeshare agreement, passengers traveling on a single ticket (e.g., Bucharest to Stockholm via Amsterdam) will have their baggage checked through to the final destination.
Yes. Flights marketed and operated by SkyTeam members (SAS and TAROM) count toward tier status and accrue redeemable miles/points according to the rules of your specific loyalty program.
Sources
Photo Credit: SAS Group
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