JetZero has selected the suppliers for the key parts of the Flight Control System that will be used in its full-scale blended wing body demonstrator.
The California, USA-based startup was founded in 2021 and is funded by the US Government and private investment. The company plans to fly its first full-scale blended wing body (BWB) demonstrator in 2027, with an entry-into-service for its Z4 aircraft of 2030.
JetZero’s Z4, which was revealed last year will carry 250 passengers, have a range of 5,750 miles (9,260km) and be powered by CFM International LEAP or Pratt & Whitney PW1000G engines. The company is targeting 50% lower fuel burn and carbon emissions compared to existing commercial airliners with its BWB aircraft.
Earlier this year the company received an airworthiness certificate from the FAA to fly its scaled prototype.
Much of the funding for the development program is from the US Air Force, which in August 2023 awarded JetZero a US$235-million four year contract to JetZero to build and fly a full-scale BWB demonstrator.
Dan da Silva, JetZero’s chief operating officer, said, “Finalizing supplier contracts for the Flight Control Systems is a significant milestone on our journey from design to test to demonstration. These suppliers are the best at what they do, and we’re so pleased to see their shared enthusiasm and belief in the blended-wing airplane we’re building at JetZero.”
BAE Systems is to supply active control sidesticks and actuation controllers and Moog will design, develop, test and certify the complete set of flight control actuators.
Safran Electronics & Defense will develop and manufacture the Throttle Quadrant, Rudder Brake Pedal, Speedbrake, Flap Control Lever, and additional cockpit components.
Woodward will provide its Trim Control Panel, while Thales is to supply its Fly-by-Wire flight control systems.
“Actively engaged in a low carbon future, Thales is proud to support JetZero in their innovative pursuit of net zero flights,” said Yanik Doyon, vice president of sales and business development for flight avionics, Thales North America. “Our proven flight controls solution is the perfect fit for a disruptive aircraft paving the way for a sustainable future in aviation.”
