Following the company’s research that found that 71% of participants believed that zero-emission technology was the best way to reduce CO2 in aviation, EasyJet have announced partnership with American startup Jet Zero to develop an ultra-efficient blended-wing technology. Which, in turn, will be capable of supporting hydrogen technology.
Starting in 2021, Jet Zero has the backing of the US Air Force, NASA and the FAA, plans to have its first aircraft to enter service in 2030 – with plans for future models to be capable of supporting a Hydrogen combustion engine after that.
Johan Lundgren, Chief Executive Officer at EasyJet, said:
“Our research shows unequivocally that British travellers are banking on technological developments to preserve their ability to fly and see the world. The level of innovation we’re seeing is encouraging but we need support from the government and regulators to ensure policy and infrastructure keeps at pace with technological progress.”
The study further found that just over half (53%) preferred it if the new UK Government would prioritise and accelerate the transition into zero-carbon emission flying.
Who are Jet Zero
Founded in Long Beach, California by former Tesla executive Tom O’Leary and aerospace engineer Mark Page in 2021.
Its first major work was the Z4 project – a blended wing passenger craft designed to carry 250 passengers. By August 2023, the US Air Force awarded a $235 million contract to have a working model by the first quarter of 2027, with the goal being to offer the technology demonstrator as the basis for further developments in the future.
By January 2024, the company had moved into a 275,000 sq ft space formally owned by Gulfstream. In March a 1:8 scale demonstrator was cleared by the FAA, leading to further flight tests at Edwards Air Force Base.
