In a major move set to reshape North Carolina’s economy, JetZero, the advanced aircraft manufacturer, has announced plans to build a $4.7 billion manufacturing plant in the state. The new facility is expected to generate over 14,500 jobs, making it one of the largest aerospace investments in U.S. history.
The announcement, made on June 13, 2025, has already stirred excitement among economic leaders, state officials, and job seekers alike.
What JetZero Is Planning
JetZero, known for developing next-generation zero-emission aircraft, has chosen North Carolina as the site for its new production and R&D hub. The massive plant will produce blended-wing body aircraft and support advanced green aerospace technologies.
Construction is scheduled to begin in early 2026, with the first phase expected to be completed by late 2028.
The new facility will span over 3,000 acres and include production lines, testing facilities, and innovation centers aimed at clean aviation technologies. This is part of JetZero’s wider strategy to decarbonize air travel and expand its manufacturing capabilities within the United States.
Why North Carolina?
North Carolina’s central location on the East Coast, skilled labor pool, and strong infrastructure made it a top contender. The state offered a combination of tax incentives, workforce development programs, and logistical advantages, making it ideal for large-scale manufacturing operations.
Governor Roy Cooper praised the decision, saying:
“JetZero’s investment marks a turning point for North Carolina’s aerospace industry. This will boost our economy, create thousands of well-paying jobs, and place North Carolina at the center of clean aviation innovation.”
The plant is expected to be located near Greensboro, a region that has been growing in importance for transportation and aerospace-related manufacturing.
Massive Economic Impact Forecasted
According to JetZero’s projections, the plant will:
- Create 7,500 direct jobs within the company
- Support another 7,000 indirect jobs in local businesses, suppliers, and construction
- Boost the state GDP by more than $1.2 billion annually
- Generate over $300 million in tax revenue in the first decade of operation
These numbers make it one of the largest job creation efforts in North Carolina’s recent history.
In comparison, this announcement rivals other major investments in the state, including Toyota’s battery factory and Apple’s new engineering hub.
A Win for the Green Tech Industry
JetZero has been positioning itself as a leader in sustainable aviation, and this new plant reinforces that vision. The company plans to make the North Carolina site fully carbon neutral, using solar energy, water recycling systems, and electric transportation inside the facility.
JetZero CEO Tom O’Leary stated:
“This plant is more than a factory. It’s a symbol of our commitment to innovation, sustainability, and American manufacturing leadership. North Carolina is the perfect partner for this journey.”
He also emphasized that the facility will be designed to train and upskill workers in clean technologies, helping transition traditional manufacturing workers into high-tech green jobs.
Training and Education Partnerships
To ensure a steady pipeline of talent, JetZero is partnering with community colleges and universities across North Carolina. These partnerships will create aerospace certification programs, internships, and vocational training to prepare young professionals and experienced workers alike.
Some institutions already on board include:
- North Carolina A&T State University
- Guilford Technical Community College
- University of North Carolina system schools
These programs aim to train over 3,000 workers annually, helping meet demand as JetZero ramps up operations.
Federal Support and National Significance
The U.S. Department of Transportation and the Biden Administration have voiced support for JetZero’s expansion plans. As part of the national push for American-made green technologies, JetZero’s plant is expected to receive federal grants and contracts, particularly from the Department of Defense and NASA.
This comes at a time when the U.S. is striving to reduce its dependence on foreign manufacturing and create climate-resilient, domestic supply chains.
According to a White House press statement:
“JetZero’s North Carolina plant exemplifies the future of American industry—clean, smart, and built to last. This move will accelerate our mission to lead in zero-emission transportation technologies.”
What’s Next?
The next few months will be critical as local zoning, environmental assessments, and public feedback sessions begin. JetZero says it will hire its first 500 employees by the end of 2026, focusing on engineers, plant managers, and logistics experts.
Community leaders are optimistic that the development will bring long-term growth, not only in jobs but also in housing, retail, and education in the surrounding areas.
JetZero also plans to set up a visitor and innovation center at the facility to promote aerospace careers and green tech awareness among school students and the public.
Conclusion
JetZero’s $4.7 billion investment in North Carolina is more than a corporate expansion—it’s a strategic leap for green aviation, a major win for U.S. manufacturing, and a powerful job creation engine. With 14,500 projected jobs, local communities are poised for transformation, and the aerospace industry is one step closer to a cleaner future.
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