JetZero selects RTX companies to lead engine integration and supply power units for its BWB aircraft
ARLINGTON, Va. - RTX in Arlington County, Va. announced it has signed three agreements with JetZero in Long Beach, Calif., to supply key systems for the company’s full-scale blended wing body (BWB) aircraft demonstrator.
Under the agreements, RTX subsidiaries Pratt & Whitney, Pratt & Whitney Canada, and Collins Aerospace will provide propulsion and structural components. Pratt & Whitney will integrate its PW2040 engine and auxiliary power unit, while Collins Aerospace will develop the nacelle and propulsion mounting structure.
"The aviation industry is focused on efforts to reduce operational costs by improving fuel efficiency, and RTX has an extensive portfolio of technologies to help companies like JetZero do just that," said Juan de Bedout, RTX’s chief technology officer.
JetZero’s blended wing design aims to cut fuel consumption by 50% compared to conventional aircraft. The company plans to begin test flights in 2027.
Dan da Silva, JetZero’s chief operating officer, said securing propulsion system partnerships marks a major step toward bringing the demonstrator from design to testing. "We welcome these industry-leading suppliers to the program and are inspired to see the industry's investment and belief in the blended wing airplane," he said.
Pratt & Whitney’s PW2040 engine, part of the PW2000 family, generates 37,000 to 43,000 pounds of thrust and powers the Boeing 757 and its military derivative, the C-17 Globemaster III. The company will also supply the APS3200 auxiliary power unit, which has been used in nearly 3,800 aircraft.
Related: Delta, JetZero partner on efficient blended-wing aircraft
Collins Aerospace will design and build nacelle structures, including inlets, fan cowls, fan ducts, fairings, and engine support structures. The company has supplied nacelles for aircraft such as the Boeing 787, Airbus A350, and A320neo.
JetZero’s demonstrator is expected to validate technologies for commercial, cargo, and military applications, including a potential future aerial refueling tanker.
The BWB company also announced it was working with Delta Air Lines in Atlanta on development of the aircraft. JetZero received a U.S. Air Force grant in 2023 to develop a full-scale demonstrator, with a test flight planned for 2027. Delta will provide operational expertise through its Sustainable Skies Lab.
