United Airlines has announced a significant investment in JetZero, a start-up developing blended wing body (BWB) aircraft technology that could revolutionise commercial aviation with improved fuel efficiency and passenger comfort.

The collaboration includes a pathway for United to purchase up to 200 of the innovative aircraft, conditional upon JetZero meeting development milestones, including the successful flight of a full-scale demonstrator expected in 2027.

JetZero's Z4 aircraft features an "all wing" design that reduces drag and produces lift across the entire wingspan. The company claims this could lead to as much as 50% reduction in fuel burn per passenger mile compared to similarly sized conventional aircraft.

Andrew Chang, head of United Airlines Ventures, explains the strategic importance of the investment: "If successful, JetZero has the potential to evolve our core mainline business by developing aircraft with a bigger, more comfortable cabin experience for our customers while increasing fuel efficiency across our network."

The Z4 is designed to accommodate 250 passengers and fly on conventional jet fuel, with propulsion systems compatible with sustainable aviation fuel blends. JetZero recently received substantial backing from the US military, with the US Air Force awarding the company a US$235 million contract to accelerate development of its commercial demonstrator.

"United's investment in our company signals the industry's belief that new, innovative technology is needed in order to achieve the efficiency and cost savings that will be required to meet the continued growth in demand for air travel across the globe," says Tom O'Leary, CEO and co-founder of JetZero.

Beyond fuel efficiency, the aircraft's unique design could potentially enhance the passenger experience with flexible seating options, larger seats across all classes, and dedicated overhead bin space for each seat. The company also claims the wider main boarding door could streamline the boarding process by leading to multiple aisles and passenger cabin bays for more efficient passenger distribution.

In one example highlighted by the companies, a flight from New York/Newark to Palma de Mallorca, Spain would use up to 45% less fuel compared to twin-aisle aircraft currently operating that route.

The aircraft is expected to integrate with existing airport infrastructure without requiring modifications to jet bridges, runways or taxiways - potentially reducing barriers to adoption by airlines.

United Airlines Ventures, the airline's corporate venture capital fund, has made several investments in alternative aircraft technologies, including hybrid-electric, hydrogen-powered, and electric air taxis, as part of its strategy to reach net zero emissions by 2050.

JetZero aims to have its aircraft enter commercial service by 2030, working alongside aviation authorities including the US Air Force, NASA, and the FAA.