Delta Air Lines is backing a project to bring a revolutionary new fuel saving aircraft into operation.
The blended-wing-body (BWB) design has been created by California-based start-up JetZero.
The BWB aircraft would be up to 50% more fuel efficient than conventional airframes with a capability of carrying more than 250 passengers.
The mounting of engines on top of the aircraft is expected to make it “significantly quieter” than traditional passenger jets.
Delta is exploring and advising on the potential for the BWB to fit into existing airport infrastructure and offer faster turn-around times.
The BWB aircraft, first tested and demonstrated in the 1990s by NASA and Stanford University to be safe and efficient, will also be capable of using sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) when it goes into service using today’s engine propulsion systems.
Delta’s formal partnership with JetZero comes after the start-up received a grant from the US Air Force in 2023 to help build a full-scale demonstrator for first flight in 2027. The airline has informally partnered with JetZero since 2021 on how to best commercialise the aircraft as part of the start-up’s grant application.
The US carrier will play a “crucial role” in the development by providing the operational expertise to help make the technology viable.
The airline will also help design an interior “experience of the future” with the uniquely shaped airframe offering “endless possibilities”.
“With Delta at the helm of designing the interiors, customers can expect changes that enhance their experience, including dedicated overhead bin space for each passenger, accessible seats and lavatories, and fewer rows,” the carrier said.
Chief sustainability officer Amelia DeLuca added: “Working with JetZero to realize an entirely new airframe and experience for customers and employees is bold and important work to advance the airline industry’s fuel saving initiatives and innovation goals.
“While Delta is focused on doing what we can today to address our carbon footprint, it’s critical we also work with a variety of partners to advance revolutionary technologies, like JetZero’s blended-wing-body aircraft, to solve for a significant portion of future aviation emissions.”
JetZero co-founder and chief executive Tom O’Leary said: “JetZero is working to change the world by bringing to market an aircraft that aims to fly this decade and make immediate and marked progress toward reducing airline energy costs, and the associated emissions.
“The ability to realise such significant efficiency gains in the near future meaningfully impacts the industry’s commitment to reach net-zero emissions by 2050 and will serve as the foundation on which other technologies and efficiencies can be realised.
“Delta was one of the first carriers to partner with us, supporting us behind the scenes since 2023, and we look forward to their continued support of our programme through their deep knowledge and expertise.”