FAA Funds JetZero Flight Tests of Top-Mounted Engines

2026-10-29 · Aviation · United States

JetZero has been selected to receive $5.3 million under the fourth phase of a Federal Aviation Administration programme to support flight tests of its top-mounted engine design. The funding backs testing of the blended-wing-body configuration, which places engines above the fuselage rather than under the wings. Such designs are being explored as a route to lower fuel burn and emissions, and FAA support for flight testing marks a step toward validating the concept.

Why it matters：Government backing for a novel airframe and engine layout signals that alternative configurations are moving toward flight validation, a potential long-term shift for aircraft design.

Key points

• JetZero will receive $5.3 million from the FAA.
• The funding falls under the fourth phase of an FAA programme.
• The money supports flight tests of top-mounted engines.

Sources (original reporting)

• AeroTime

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