Alaska Airlines invests in JetZero

Alaska Airlines has invested in aircraft manufacturer JetZero - a company currently developing a new blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft. JetZero's BWB aircraft integrates the aircraft's wings and fuselage into a single smooth shape, with the purpose of reducing aerodynamic drag. ""At Alaska, we are always looking for ways to innovate and shape the future of air travel for our guests, employees, and industry,"" said Diana Birkett Rakow, senior vice president of public affairs and sustainability at Alaska Airlines. She added: ""We are proud to invest in JetZero's development of this innovative next-generation aircraft, with a significant step-change in fuel efficiency. We and JetZero share a vision for more sustainable aviation, and we are excited to partner with them in creating that future."" The aircraft is set to provide up to 50% less fuel burn while reducing the amount of noise it makes due to its engines being mounted on top of the fuselage. ""The biggest challenge for airlines is lowering fuel burn and emissions. Of all the great new technologies in work, the BWB design delivers the biggest impact by far,” said Tom O'Leary, CEO and co-founder of JetZero. “Airlines will see immediate benefit in cost savings, dramatically lower emissions and improved customer experience, compared to airplanes flying today. We're thrilled to welcome Alaska to our team of innovators, and our belief that this aircraft will reshape aviation."" This investment includes options for future aircraft orders and was made through Alaska Star Ventures (ASV), the airline's investment arm.