The world of sustainable aerospace is witnessing a new dawn, as NASA joins forces with Boeing to pioneer an eco-friendly flight demonstrator. This collaboration indicates a novel stride towards increasing environmental sustainability in aviation, marking a significant moment in the history of aerospace technology. Stay tuned as we delve into this groundbreaking initiative and its implications for the future of air travel.
Boeing and NASA will collaborate with U.S. airlines to advise the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator (SFD) project and development of the X-66A research aircraft, writes Erick Brothers for Aerospace Manufacturing and Design, in an article posted to their website today.
As part of a new sustainability coalition, Alaska Airlines, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines will provide input on operational efficiencies, maintenance, handling characteristics, and airport compatibility.
At EAA AirVenture Oshkosh, NASA and Boeing revealed the stunning new X-66A livery, captivating the audience with its awe-inspiring design, the article noted.
The X-66A will test the Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) airframe configuration and will be built from a modified MD-90 aircraft at a Boeing facility in Palmdale, California. It’s NASA's first X-plane focused on helping achieve its goal of net-zero aviation greenhouse gas emissions.
When combined with expected advancements in propulsion systems, materials, and systems architecture, a single-aisle airplane with a TTBW configuration could reduce fuel consumption and emissions by up to 30% relative to today's domestic fleet of airplanes.
This collaborative effort represents a significant stride towards sustainable aviation. By leveraging the collective knowledge and expertise of these airlines, NASA and Boeing can expedite the development and implementation of environmentally friendly technologies. The creation of the X-66A and the TTBW airframe configuration is a testament to this endeavor, offering a significant reduction in fuel consumption and emissions. As we move towards a future where sustainable practices are imperative, initiatives like the SFD project set a benchmark for others to follow.
Learn More
- For more information read the full article here.
- Go to the Aerospace Manufacturing and Design website.
- Learn more about NASA in our Discovery Directory.
- Learn more about Boeing in our Discovery Directory.