California-based startup JetZero has announced plans to build a $4.7 billion manufacturing facility at Greensboro's airport in North Carolina, with the ambitious goal of creating more than 14,500 jobs by 2036 to produce its innovative Z4 blended-wing-body aircraft that promises up to 50% better fuel efficiency than traditional commercial airliners.
The Z4 aircraft represents JetZero's revolutionary approach to commercial aviation through its blended-wing-body (BWB) or "all-wing" design. This innovative configuration accommodates 250 passengers and promises up to 50% reduction in fuel burn per passenger mile compared to similarly sized conventional aircraft.12 With a 5,000 nautical mile range, the Z4 is designed to serve international routes while utilizing existing airport infrastructure, making it a versatile option for airlines seeking both efficiency and operational flexibility.34
JetZero has made significant progress toward bringing this concept to reality, with development milestones including an FAA airworthiness certificate for its 1:8 scale "Pathfinder" demonstrator in March 2024.5 The company is working with industry partners including Northrop Grumman's Scaled Composites division to build a full-scale demonstrator scheduled to fly in 2027, powered by Pratt & Whitney PW2040 engines.56 This development is supported by a $235 million U.S. Air Force contract, with commercial service targeted for 2030.47 The Z4's potential has attracted major industry interest, including United Airlines' investment with a conditional path to purchase up to 200 aircraft.17
The JetZero facility in Greensboro represents the largest job announcement in North Carolina's history, with plans to create 14,500 high-tech positions between 2027 and 2037.12 These jobs will pay a minimum average wage of $89,340—significantly higher than Guilford County's current average of $60,195.3 The economic impact extends beyond direct employment, as JetZero will collaborate with local educational institutions, including North Carolina A&T State University, to develop customized workforce training programs focused on engineering and AI systems.4
The company's "factory of the future" will be fully digital and AI-driven, designed to outpace legacy manufacturers by improving production efficiency, cutting unit costs, and strengthening supply chain resilience.56 At full capacity, expected in the late 2030s, the facility aims to produce up to 20 Z4 airplanes monthly, contributing significantly to American manufacturing leadership and aerospace innovation.5 This manufacturing capability will support JetZero's goal of delivering its first commercial aircraft by the early 2030s, with United Airlines and Alaska Airlines already making conditional purchase agreements.7
Piedmont Triad International Airport (IATA: GSO) is strategically located in unincorporated Guilford County, North Carolina, just west of Greensboro.1 Situated on a 3,770-acre campus, the airport serves the Piedmont Triad region, which encompasses the cities of Greensboro, High Point, and Winston-Salem.12 The airport's physical address is 1000A Ted Johnson Parkway, Greensboro, NC 27409.34
The airport's central location offers exceptional regional and national connectivity. It sits at the crossroads of major interstate highways including I-40, I-73, I-74, I-77, and I-85, providing immediate highway access for travelers and businesses.2 This prime mid-Atlantic position places more than half of the U.S. population and most major markets within a 650-mile radius.2 The region's geographic advantage extends beyond business convenience—travelers can reach both the Blue Ridge Parkway and North Carolina's Atlantic coast within just a few hours' drive, making it an excellent hub for both industry and quality of life.2
