JetZero, an innovative aviation company based in Long Beach, California, has chosen Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTI) in Greensboro, North Carolina, as the site for its $4.7 billion manufacturing plant. The JetZero Piedmont Triad International Airport project is expected to create at least 14,560 jobs over the next decade, marking one of the largest economic development commitments in North Carolina’s history.
Z4 Aircraft to Be Built in Greensboro
The company plans to manufacture its flagship aircraft, the Z4 — promoted as the “world’s first commercial blended wing body airplane” — at the new JetZero Piedmont Triad International Airport project. The Z4 is designed for medium-range routes with a 250-passenger capacity and a 5,000-nautical-mile range. Test flights are scheduled for 2027, with commercial flights expected by 2030.
High-Paying Jobs and Economic Incentives
JetZero’s new facility will generate jobs in aerospace engineering, manufacturing, R&D, administration, HR, and customer service, with average annual wages of $89,340. In exchange, JetZero is eligible for up to $1.57 billion in Job Development Investment Grant (JDIG) incentives, distributed over 39 years. Guilford County has pledged an additional $75.9 million in performance-based incentives over 20 years.
Read Also: Milwaukee Mitchell International Airport Breaks Ground on $75 Million Air Cargo Facility
Airport Megasite Sees Largest Employer Yet
The JetZero Piedmont Triad International Airport project will occupy nearly 1,000 acres, making it the largest employment commitment at the airport’s growing aviation megasite. This site also hosts major industry players such as Boom Supersonic, Honda Aircraft Co., and FedEx. JetZero will utilize most of PTI’s remaining undeveloped land, according to the Greensboro Chamber of Commerce.
Competing Cities and Site Requirements
JetZero considered over 25 sites in 17 states before selecting Greensboro, with Huntsville, Alabama identified as a strong competitor. Key requirements included a 10,000-foot runway and a site large enough to support major aircraft production — which PTI satisfied with ease.
Next Steps in Production Plan
JetZero must now finalize an engine supplier and complete Z4 prototype testing. At full production capacity, the plant aims to manufacture 20 aircraft per month. The facility will be comparable in size to Boeing’s widebody plant in Everett, Washington.
The JetZero Piedmont Triad International Airport project represents a transformative investment for the region, positioning North Carolina as a future leader in next-generation aviation manufacturing.
