JetZero Takes Flight in North Carolina with $4.7B Factory and Hydrogen-Ready Jet Ambitions

North Carolina governor Josh Stein makes that announcement that JetZero will build its manufacturing facility for its future Z4 passenger jet at Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, during a ceremony on Thursday, June 12, 2025 at PTI Airport in Greensboro, N.C. (Walt Unks/The Winston-Salem Journal via AP)

JetZero has unveiled plans to establish its first aircraft manufacturing facility in Greensboro, North Carolina, with a staggering $4.7 billion investment aimed at producing its next-generation Z4 aircraft.

https://cw39.com/news/business/ap-business/ap-jetzero-plans-to-build-4-7b-plant-in-north-carolina-aims-to-create-14500-jobs/

The California-based aerospace startup will break ground at Piedmont Triad International Airport, launching a facility expected to create over 14,500 jobs by 2036. Touted as the largest job commitment in North Carolina’s history, the announcement reflects both JetZero's ambitious roadmap and the state's aerospace potential.

The Z4 aircraft, a blended-wing design, is projected to be up to 50% more fuel-efficient than conventional airliners. It will run on conventional jet fuel but is designed to convert to hydrogen, making it a pivotal development in sustainable aviation. CEO Tom O'Leary called the Greensboro site a "launchpad for a new chapter of American aerospace."

Backed by approximately $300 million in funding, including a U.S. Air Force grant, JetZero plans to debut a demonstrator model by 2027. United Airlines and Alaska Airlines have invested in the project, with conditional purchase agreements in place. Full production aims to deliver 20 aircraft per month in the early 2030s.

"North Carolina is the perfect location," said Governor Josh Stein. "We are also the future of flight."

The factory jobs are set to offer average annual salaries above $89,000. State and local incentives may exceed $2.35 billion through the 2060s, including over $1 billion in worker tax rebates, $785 million from local governments, and $450 million from the state legislature. The site will also feature a composite research facility.

JetZero's facility joins an already booming aerospace ecosystem in the Piedmont Triad area, home to Honda Aircraft and Boom Supersonic. The region's strategic location has also attracted Toyota's EV battery operations.

For more information

https://www.jetzero.com

(Top image: Credit — JetZero)

For the latest news, insights, and content regarding hydrogen aviation, please join the following HYSKY Society channels: YouTube, X, and LinkedIn.

FAQ - Hydrogen Aviation and JetZero's Role

1. What is the JetZero Z4 aircraft?

   • The Z4 is a blended-wing body jet designed for higher fuel efficiency and future hydrogen compatibility.

2. Can the Z4 run on hydrogen fuel?

   • Yes, while initially designed for jet fuel, it can be converted to hydrogen in the future.

3. How many passengers will the Z4 carry?

   • Approximately 250 passengers.

4. What is the range of the Z4 aircraft?

   • Up to 5,000 nautical miles.

5. Why is the Z4's design considered more efficient?

   • Its all-wing structure reduces drag, boosting fuel efficiency by up to 50%.

6. When will Z4 aircraft be commercially available?

   • JetZero targets early 2030s for service entry.

7. Who is backing JetZero financially?

   • Investors include the U.S. Air Force, United Airlines, and Alaska Airlines.

8. Where will JetZero build the Z4?

   • At a new $4.7 billion facility in Greensboro, North Carolina.

9. How many jobs will this project create?

   • Over 14,500 jobs by 2036.

10. What is hydrogen aviation?

    • Hydrogen aviation uses hydrogen fuel cells or combustion to power aircraft with minimal emissions.