FAA Approves Testing of New Blended Wing Zero Carbon Emissions Aircraft

The future of next generation aircraft is slowly emerging.

The latest development?

California-based JetZero has just received Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) approval to begin testing a smaller version of its “blended wing body” aircraft, according a report from The Points Guy.

The plane, which looks more like a Star Wars jet than a traditional passenger plane, is lighter than existing aircraft and as a result will fly more efficiently. The plane also has two jet engines on top of the aircraft’s body, a design feature that’s meant to allow the plane to burn just half the fuel of a standard jet.

JetZero calls its new plane "the biggest leap in commercial aircraft architecture since the dawn of the jet age.”

“JetZero is developing an ultra-efficient Blended Wing Body jet with unprecedented performance. Working with the US Air Force, NASA and the FAA for entry-into-service by 2030,” says the company’s website, adding that the plane is “the best first step toward the ultimate goal of zero-carbon emissions aviation.”

The blended wing body plane will have 100 percent sustainable aviation fuel. (SAF) compatibility, per JetZero. The plane will also possess “the internal volume to accommodate zero-carbon emissions hydrogen.”

Once its ready for use, the blended wing plane may serve both military and commercial purposes. The U.S. Department of Defense's Innovation Unit has provided $235 million in funding for development of the new plane.

A spokesman for JetZero told The Points Guy that the company is targeting “the middle of the airline market” with its aircraft. When used commercially, the plan may be able to carry up to 250 passengers.

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