Alaska Airlines Invests in JetZero's BWB Aircraft for Greener Flying
Key Ideas
- Alaska Airlines has invested in JetZero's blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft design to achieve greener flying with up to 50% lower fuel burn and carbon emissions.
- The investment is part of Alaska Airlines' goal to reach net zero carbon emissions by 2040 by focusing on more efficient aircraft design instead of hydrogen or SAF technology.
- JetZero's BWB design is expected to provide immediate benefits in cost savings, lower emissions, and improved customer experience for airlines.
- Alaska Airlines' investment in JetZero showcases a commitment to innovation and sustainable aviation, aligning with the vision for a more eco-friendly future in the industry.
Alaska Airlines, a regional and international carrier in the United States, has announced its investment in JetZero, a designer of blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft, as part of the airline's strategy to achieve greener flying solutions. The BWB design is highlighted for its potential to reduce fuel burn by up to 50%, consequently lowering carbon emissions without necessitating new fuel technology. While other aviation companies are exploring hydrogen-powered flights or Sustainable Aviation Fuel (SAF), Alaska Airlines has chosen to invest in JetZero through its Series A funding round to focus on designing more fuel-efficient planes. The investment was facilitated by Alaska Star Ventures, an entity launched by Alaska Airlines with a specific focus on identifying and enabling technologies to help the airline achieve its target of net zero carbon emissions by 2040.
In addition to investing in BWB technology, Alaska Airlines has also forged partnerships with Neste and Shell Aviation to explore alternative fuels. This strategic move aligns with the airline's commitment to sustainability and reducing its environmental impact. Diana Birkett Rakow, the senior vice president of public affairs and sustainability at Alaska Airlines, expressed the airline's dedication to shaping the future of air travel by supporting JetZero's innovative aircraft development. JetZero's CEO, Tom O'Leary, praised the partnership with Alaska Airlines, emphasizing the transformative potential of the BWB design in significantly lowering fuel burn and emissions.
The collaboration between Alaska Airlines and JetZero reflects a shared vision for more sustainable aviation practices. The BWB design is expected to offer immediate advantages to airlines in terms of cost savings, emission reductions, and enhanced passenger experiences, positioning it as a key technology for the industry's future. By investing in JetZero's aircraft innovation, Alaska Airlines demonstrates its commitment to driving innovation and sustainability in the aviation sector, paving the way for a more eco-friendly and efficient future in air travel.
Topics
Aviation
Innovation
Sustainability
Carbon Emissions
Investment
Aviation Technology
Partnerships
Fuel Efficiency
Airline Industry
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