Blended-Wing Z4 Aircraft to Be Manufactured at New Greensboro Plant Starting Late 2030s

JetZero, the aerospace startup behind the innovative blended-wing Z4 aircraft, has announced plans to construct its first manufacturing and final assembly facility at Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina. The facility represents a major step forward in the company’s mission to reshape commercial aviation with sustainable, next-generation aircraft technology.

The new site is expected to generate over 14,500 jobs and eventually produce as many as 20 Z4 aircraft per month, with full operations anticipated to begin in the late 2030s.

“North Carolina offers the ideal combination of talent, infrastructure, and forward-thinking leadership to support our mission to reshape aviation,” said Tom O’Leary, CEO and co-founder of JetZero. “This facility is a critical milestone in bringing our all-wing Z4 to market. I applaud the leadership of Governor Josh Stein and his team, as well as the leadership of the North Carolina General Assembly, and a whole host of local leaders and organizations for working with us to bring JetZero to North Carolina, the birthplace of aviation.”

Cutting-Edge Aircraft with a Sustainable Focus

The Z4 aircraft is designed to drastically improve fuel efficiency and reduce environmental impact through its unique all-wing configuration. With a projected 50% increase in fuel efficiency, the aircraft will also cut operating costs and carbon emissions for airline partners. Seating around 250 passengers with a range of up to 5,000 nautical miles, the Z4 is positioned as a mid-market aircraft, bridging the gap between traditional single-aisle and twin-aisle models.

JetZero has already secured backing from major U.S. carriers, including United Airlines and Alaska Airlines, while 14 other airlines have joined its Airline Working Group, offering design feedback and input into the aircraft’s development. Notably, easyJet is JetZero’s first European airline partner.

Siemens to Power Smart Manufacturing Operations

Construction of the Greensboro facility is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with JetZero partnering with Siemens USA to implement advanced smart manufacturing solutions. Siemens’ Smart Infrastructure, Electrification, and Automation divisions will support the facility's build-out and operational framework, enabling an efficient and flexible production line capable of scaling with demand.

JetZero and Siemens are already collaborating on the Demonstrator, a full-scale prototype of the Z4, which is expected to have its first flight in 2027.

“JetZero’s upcoming facility, powered by Siemens technologies, demonstrates that revitalizing American manufacturing is more than just a vision—it’s becoming reality,” said Barbara Humpton, President and CEO of Siemens USA. “Together, we’re poised to accelerate innovation, create high-quality jobs, and position North Carolina as the next great U.S. aerospace hub—laying the foundation for a stronger, more competitive future.”

North Carolina’s Role in the Future of Flight

The announcement marks a significant economic and technological milestone for North Carolina, further solidifying its status as a rising aerospace manufacturing powerhouse. With its rich aviation legacy, beginning with the Wright brothers’ first flight at Kitty Hawk, the state continues to attract cutting-edge companies focused on clean technology and innovation.

The project is expected to benefit not just the Piedmont Triad region, but the entire state economy through workforce development, supply chain expansion, and global recognition.

As JetZero prepares to revolutionize commercial aviation, its commitment to sustainability, innovation, and American manufacturing is seen as a model for the future of the aerospace industry.

Originally reported by Grace Hardy in Lara News.