EasyJet has partnered with JetZero to provide assistance in developing hydrogen propulsion systems for the US startup’s blended-wing body aircraft. 

The airline will also join JetZero’s airline working group, aimed at addressing practical considerations of airline and airport operations. The aircraft, once certified, is predicted to offer up to 50% lower fuel burn and emissions vs today’s tube-and-wing airliners.

Tom O’Leary, CEO and co-founder of JetZero, said: “JetZero’s blended wing body configuration delivers what the industry most needs today: lower fuel burn, lower emissions and a viable path to zero carbon emissions. We welcome easyJet to the airline working group and look forward to furthering the work of incorporating hydrogen into our planning for future platforms.”

EasyJet’s hydrogen interest comes because JetZero’s aircraft will be propulsion system agnostic. As well as the opportunity to use conventional engines powered by sustainable aviation fuel (SAF), its novel shape offers space for hydrogen storage without significantly impacting passenger capacity.

David Morgan, CEO of EasyJet, said: “The blended-wing aircraft design offers the potential to maximise efficiencies and significantly reduce fuel burn and emissions in the process. Its potential to be powered by SAF or hydrogen in the future is also incredibly exciting and we look forward to working with JetZero over the coming years alongside our other partners to achieve our joint ambition to deliver a more sustainable pathway for the aviation industry.”

JetZero’s aircraft programme has also attracted support from the US Air Force and NASA, including a $235m contract from the Air Force’s Defense Innovation Unit. The startup is aiming to get its first aircraft into service in 2030.

Meanwhile, Alaska Airlines last month became the first airline to partner with JetZero having invested in the company’s Series A last year.