JetZero is to build its first production and final assembly facility at Piedmont Triad International Airport in Greensboro, North Carolina. The $4.7 billion site will produce the company’s Z4 aircraft and house its relocated headquarters, moving operations from Long Beach, California. Construction is due to begin in the first half of 2026, with initial deliveries expected in the early 2030s.

The advanced manufacturing hub is projected to create over 14,500 jobs. It will have the capacity to produce up to 20 Z4 aircraft per month by the late 2030s. JetZero is partnering with Siemens to create a digitally enabled, AI-supported greenfield plant designed for speed, efficiency and reduced cost. The facility is expected to surpass legacy production models while supporting the United States’ aim to revitalise domestic manufacturing and exports.

JetZero’s Z4, a blended-wing body aircraft seating around 250 passengers, aims to reduce fuel burn by up to 50% compared with conventional designs. Its design supports middle market route demands and includes a reimagined passenger layout offering direct aisle access, forward visibility and increased personal space. The aircraft will also be fully compatible with existing airport infrastructure.

Governor Josh Stein said: “I am thrilled to welcome JetZero and its 14,000 good-paying jobs and unprecedented innovation to Guilford County. From first in flight to now the future of flight, North Carolina and our skilled workforce is soaring.”

JetZero co-founder and CEO Tom O’Leary added: “This facility is a critical milestone in bringing our all-wing Z4 to market. I applaud the leadership of Governor Josh Stein and his team as well as the leadership of the North Carolina General Assembly, and whole host of local leaders and organisations for working with us to bring JetZero to North Carolina, the birthplace of aviation.”

The site selection was influenced by the state’s aerospace cluster, low energy costs and business climate. Over 30 academic institutions and local bodies will contribute to workforce development, including Guilford Tech and the wider NC Community College System, whose NCEdge programme will create a bespoke $22 million training plan.

JetZero has secured investment and conditional orders from Alaska Airlines and United Airlines, the latter for 100 aircraft and 100 options. Around 14 airlines are supporting the development via the company’s Airline Working Group.

PTI’s executive director Kevin Baker called the move “a powerful validation of PTI’s long-term vision to build an airport that is more than a place of transportation, but a centre of aerospace excellence.”

Barbara Humpton, Siemens USA’s president and CEO, said: “JetZero’s upcoming facility, powered by Siemens technologies, demonstrates that revitalising American manufacturing is more than just a vision - it’s becoming reality.”

JetZero’s Z4 demonstrator is scheduled to fly in 2027.