3M supports JetZero with funding, materials expertise for Z4 blended wing body aircraft. Decades of materials science expertise will reportedly aid design, manufacturing and maintenance of the Z4 - from lightning protection to structural assembly to thermal acoustic solutions. Senior Managing Editor, CompositesWorld and Products Finishing Source | JetZero 3M (St. Paul, Minn., U.S.) has announced an investment and strategic collaboration with JetZero (Long Beach, Calif., U.S.), an aerospace innovator developing the Z4 commercial all-wing body aircraft. The distinctive design offers the potential to redefine how the industry meets ever increasing airline needs for efficiency, performance and sustainability. For decades, commercial aircraft design has followed the familiar "tube-and-wing" structure. Together, 3M, JetZero and many other industry players are working to advance the next major design evolution. JetZero's Z4 blended-wing body aircraft is designed to deliver up to a 50% reduction in fuel consumption while also improving the passenger experience. The JetZero Z4 aircraft is quickly gaining attention across the aviation industry as suppliers and strategic partners recognize its potential to reshape commercial air travel. * Hexcel is partnering to qualify composite technologies for the BWB aircraft. * JetZero has developed a digital thread design, in partnership with Siemens, that includes fiber optic sensors embedded throughout the aircraft for monitoring its structures and systems, and Collins Aerospace will design and build nacelle structures including the inlet, fan cowl and fan duct, in addition to fairings and the engine support structure. * Delta Air Lines is partnering with JetZero, providing operational expertise through its Sustainable Skies Lab to bring the BWB aircraft to commercial viability. * A demonstrator aircraft has been built in partnership with Northrop Grumman and its Scaled Composites subsidiary, and is on-track for first flight in 2027. According to JetZero, the Z4's integrated wing and fuselage structure generates significant aerodynamic improvements while also creating new opportunities and meeting engineering challenges across the aircraft development life cycle. With support from 3M's material science expertise, JetZero will bring new solutions to the design, manufacturing and ongoing maintenance of its aircraft. This collaboration aligns with 3M's broader commitment to driving material solutions for the aviation industry. Beyond the Z4, the partnership helps mature technologies that can be adopted by already commercialized aircraft, providing immediate efficiency gains while also evolving long-term design. By participating in JetZero's Series B funding round, 3M continues its focus on bringing cutting-edge technologies into aircraft design, including lightning protection, structural assembly and thermal acoustic solutions. * Combining multifunctional thermoplastic composites, additive manufacturing for next-gen airframe structures The DOMMINIO project combines AFP with 3D printed gyroid cores, embedded SHM sensors and smart materials for induction-driven disassembly of parts at end of life. * Development of a composite liquid hydrogen tank for commercial aircraft Netherlands consortium advances cryogenic composites testing, tank designs and manufacturing including AFP, hybrid winding, welding of tank components and integrated SHM and H2 sensors for demonstrators in 2025. * Low-cost, efficient CFRP anisogrid lattice structures CIRA uses patented parallel winding, dry fiber, silicone tooling and resin infusion to cut labor for lightweight, heavily loaded space applications.

March 24, 2026 NexPoint launches multifamily DST offering for Greensboro, North Carolina property. The Greensboro-High Point Metropolitan Statistical Area's affordability, connectivity, and industry diversification underpin strong multifamily demand and reinforce the investment thesis for NexPoint Waterford DST. NexPoint, a multibillion-dollar alternative investment firm, today announced the launch of NexPoint Waterford DST (the "Offering"), a Delaware statutory trust ("DST"). The offering provides access to a high-quality, low-density apartment community located in the Greensboro-High Point Metropolitan Statistical Area (MSA), one of North Carolina's fastest-growing mid-sized markets. Situated along the scenic shores of Lake Jeanette, Waterford Place is a 240-unit garden-style community featuring expansive floorplans (averaging 1,155 square feet), sunrooms in every residence, and a comprehensive amenity package catering to modern renter preferences. The property benefits from proximity to Piedmont Triad International Airport, major employment centers, and a diversified economic base anchored by aerospace, advanced manufacturing, healthcare, and logistics. "Waterford DST reflects our conviction in high-growth Southeast markets supported by strong fundamentals, durable renter demand, and meaningful opportunities for operational enhancement," said Matt McGraner, NexPoint's Chief Investment Officer and Executive Vice President. The Greensboro-High Point MSA has shown consistent population growth, resilient employment trends, and substantial corporate investment, including JetZero's 14,500-job aerospace expansion and Toyota's multibillion-dollar commitment to a new battery manufacturing facility in nearby Liberty, NC. The region's affordability, connectivity, and industry diversification underpin strong multifamily demand and reinforce the investment thesis for NexPoint Waterford DST. About nexpoint. NexPoint is a multibillion-dollar investment firm based in Dallas, Texas. The firm is structured around three major business areas: real estate, corporate credit and equities, and retirement solutions. NexPoint's businesses span asset classes, industries, and strategies, providing the flexibility to invest across capital structures and market environments. Serving a diverse client base, NexPoint's investment strategies are offered in a range of vehicles and fund structures, including mutual funds, public and private REITs, tax-advantaged vehicles, private funds, and separate accounts. For more information, including important risks and disclosures, visit nexpoint.com. This announcement is intended only for informational purposes and does not constitute an offer to buy or sell securities. Offers will only be made through a private placement memorandum to accredited investors and where permitted by law.

JetZero renovating building near PTI as temporary base before factory construction begins. Eventually, 15,000 people will work at JetZero with an average salary of $90,000. GREENSBORO, N.C. - We've learned when JetZero will break ground on its factory at PTI Airport. The date is June 9. The aviation company says it's also renovating a building near the airport to use as a temporary base. JetZero hasn't made any planes yet, but says they'll be 50% more fuel efficient than traditional commercial jets. The company has received contracts from the Air Force, United, Delta and Alaska Airlines.