Major airlines investing in ‘revolutionary’ airplane wings

Authored by Maria R. Becce, Chairperson, LaGuardia Airport Committee, Co-Chairperson, New York Community Aviation Roundtable, volunteer, Quiet American Skies

Is a more sustainable aviation ecosystem possible by reducing overall noise pollution as well as adding social and economic benefits? The U.S. Air Force, Alaska Airlines, Delta Airlines and United Airlines believe so, and have been making major investments since 2023 in a Blended Wing Body (BWB) airframe manufacturing company in California called JetZero.  

JetZero’s flagship aircraft is a high-capacity commercial airplane designed to reshape both civilian and military aviation. The aircraft has multiple configurations including cargo transport. JetZero is planning a first flight with a full-scale demonstrator aircraft in 2027. Delta Airlines, through its Sustainable Skies Lab, announced a partnership with JetZero in early March of this year and United Airlines announced its commitment end of April. 

Photo credit:  Alex Pham

United Airlines affirmed in a recent announcement that partnering with JetZero could change the course of aerospace forever. Why is that? JetZero’s BWB design represents a radical departure from conventional tubular aircraft shapes. The “all wing” design greatly reduces noise caused by turbulent flows of air over and around surfaces. JetZero will use Pratt & Whitney turbofan engines and a Collins Aerospace propulsion system with the ability to run on sustainable aviation fuel blends. Its aerodynamic approach could also reduce fuel consumption by up to 50% per passenger mile. Further enhancing its overall appeal, the JetZero BWB aircraft is designed to integrate with existing airport infrastructure.

The noise generated by traditional tube-and-wing aircraft during takeoff and landing can be disruptive, affecting the well-being of individuals who live near airports and in overflight communities. Aircraft noise can affect human health and well-being including sleep disturbances, increased stress levels and cardiovascular problems. The aerodynamic design of the BWB airframe is expected to result in 40% less noise compared with “tube and wing” aircraft. The BWB is more efficient, cleaner and quieter. That’s a win in all regards.

United Airlines put it like this: “When innovation meets sustainability, customers win, the planet wins, and we all share in the victory.”