3M Will Help Shape JetZero’s ‘All-Wing’ Airliner

‘Investment and strategic collaboration’ is intended to support the design of the company’s Z4.

Jack Daleo

Tuesday, March 17, 2026 at 08:00 AM ET

Verified

Edited By:

Travis Tingle

3M believes JetZero’s blended-wing body Z4 has the potential to ‘reshape aviation.’ [Credit: 3M]

Key Takeaways:

3M is partnering with and investing in JetZero to develop its Z4 blended-wing body (BWB) aircraft, leveraging 3M's material science expertise to "reshape aviation."
The Z4 is designed to achieve a significant reduction in fuel consumption, up to 50 percent compared to traditional aircraft, due to its innovative BWB design and use of lightweight carbon fiber composites.
The project has strong industry backing, including investments and partnerships from major airlines like United, Delta, and Alaska, as well as aerospace firms RTX and Northrop Grumman, with a prototype demonstration planned for 2027.

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3M, which manufactures a variety of aircraft interiors, structures, propulsion systems, and other aerospace products, will help develop a new airliner it believes has the potential to “reshape aviation.”

The conglomerate on Monday announced a fresh investment and collaboration with JetZero, the developer of a blended-wing body (BWB) or “all-wing” aircraft for up to 250 passengers. With its “material science expertise,” 3M plans to support the design, manufacturing, and maintenance of JetZero’s flagship Z4.