See the Possible Future of Alaska Airlines' Planes Thanks to This Major Investment

14.08.2024 - 16:57 / travelandleisure.com

Travelers may be flying in a new, futuristic looking aircraft within the next decade. 

Alaska Airlines recently announced a new investment in aircraft company JetZero, which is in the process of designing and manufacturing super-wide aircraft that utilize less fuel and look straight out of a science fiction novel. The design of the new plane is known as a «blended wing body» (BWB), which is wider than most aircraft and could create a brand new cabin experience for passengers to leisurely spread out. 

“JetZero's BWB aircraft stands out with its innovative design that integrates the wings and fuselage into a single smooth shape, greatly reducing aerodynamic drag,” according to the release.

The new aircraft design drops fuel consumption by 50%, and also significantly reduces operating costs.

Alaska has previously set a goal to reduce carbon emissions to net zero by 2040, and they feel this investment will aid in achieving this goal. The airline currently operates a variety of Boeing aircraft including the 737-9 Max, as well as the Embraer 175. 

«At Alaska, we are always looking for ways to innovate and shape the future of air travel for our guests, employees, and industry,» Alaska Airlines’ Senior Vice President of Public Affairs and Sustainability Diana Birkett Rako said in the release. 

Alaska did not disclose the amount of the investment, but shared they were the first airline to invest in JetZero's Series A funding round.

JetZero says on their website they aim to take flight by 2030 with the new aircraft, and is working with NASA and FAA to achieve the goal.

The company received a $235 million award from the U.S. Air Force in August 2023. 

The airline industry have been steadily investing in new aircraft companies and technologies.

For example, United Airlines recently made a significant investment into Archer's air taxi, which utilizes electrical vertical takeoff and landing, and almost looks like an airplane with seven spinning drone helicopters attached to it. JetBlue has also made an investment in Joby Aviation which also provides air travel for shorter trips using electric powered aircraft.