JetZero will build a $4.7 billion, 3-million-square-foot aerospace facility at PTI Airport in Greensboro, NC, with construction expected to start in early 2026.
Thousands of construction jobs and over 14,500 permanent high-tech roles are anticipated, focusing on local workforce development.
The facility will produce the Z4, a blended-wing-body aircraft designed to cut fuel use and emissions by up to 50%.
JetZero, the California-based aerospace manufacturer, announced Thursday that it had selected Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTI) in Greensboro, North Carolina, as the site for its first U.S. manufacturing facility. The assembly plant, a $4.7 billion, 3-million-square-foot facility, is set to transform the region.
Start Date: Construction is slated to begin in the first half of 2026, following site preparation and permitting.
Facility Size: According to JetZero, the project will encompass approximately 3 million square feet of manufacturing, assembly, and office space, making it one of the largest single-phase aerospace builds in the U.S.
Expected Completion: The first construction phase is anticipated to be completed by 2029, with production ramping up through the early 2030s.
A rendering of the JetZero Z4 aircraft, the world’s first commercial blended-wing-body aircraft, a design that promises up to 50% lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions than today’s airliners. Image: JetZero
Design: The manufacturing facility will feature a clean sheet, sustainable design optimized for JetZero’s Z4 blended-wing body aircraft. The plant will integrate Siemens’ digital tools and industrial Artificial Intelligence (AI) to achieve maximum efficiency and cost-effectiveness in production and operations.
Infrastructure: The project will require upgrades to PTI’s taxiways, utilities, and road access, as well as new hangars, high-bay assembly lines, office space, and logistics systems.
Contracting Opportunities: JetZero is expected to release bid packages for general contractors, specialty trades, and suppliers in late 2025. The company has indicated a preference for local and regional firms with aerospace and large-scale industrial experience.
Construction Jobs: Construction of the megaproject is projected to create thousands of direct and indirect jobs, with over 14,500 permanent high-tech positions once the plant is operational.
Training: JetZero will collaborate with North Carolina’s community colleges and trade schools to develop a skilled construction and manufacturing workforce.
A rendering of a JetZero manufacturing facility. The company plans to build a $4.7 billion, 3-million-square-foot assembly plant at Piedmont Triad International Airport (PTI) in Greensboro, North Carolina. Image: JetZero
Tom O’Leary, CEO and co-founder of JetZero, said, “This facility is a critical milestone in bringing our all-wing Z4 to market.”
Executive director of PTI airport, Kevin Baker, said, “We’re ready to work with JetZero and our construction partners to deliver a world-class facility that will anchor the region’s aerospace future.”
Workforce Development: Local unions, trade associations, and training centers are encouraged to engage early as JetZero ramps up hiring and apprenticeship programs.
“JetZero’s decision is a testament to North Carolina’s strength in construction, infrastructure, and workforce development,” said Governor Josh Stein. “This project will set new standards for aerospace manufacturing and construction in the Southeast.”
“JetZero’s upcoming facility, powered by Siemens technologies, demonstrates that revitalizing American manufacturing is more than just a vision—it’s becoming reality,” said Barbara Humpton, President and CEO, Siemens USA.
“Together, we’re poised to accelerate innovation, create high-quality jobs, and position North Carolina as the next great U.S. aerospace hub—laying the foundation for a stronger, more competitive future,” Humpton added.
JetZero’s Z4 is a next-generation aircraft engineered to revolutionize commercial aviation with superior fuel efficiency, advanced technology, and a dramatically improved experience for passengers and crew.
The company is developing the world’s first commercial blended-wing-body aircraft, which anticipates up to 50% lower fuel consumption and carbon emissions than today’s airliners.
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