OSHKOSH,
Wis., July 25, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Boeing
[NYSE: BA] and NASA will collaborate with U.S. airlines to advise
the Sustainable Flight Demonstrator (SFD) project and
development of the X-66A research aircraft. 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.
NASA and Boeing also unveiled the new X-66A livery today at EAA
AirVenture Oshkosh.
"Hearing directly from the operators during all phases of the
Sustainable Flight Demonstrator project will help us understand
exact requirements and tradeoffs," said Todd Citron, Boeing chief technology officer.
"The airlines' feedback will significantly contribute to the X-66A
project learnings while furthering aviation sustainability."
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, Calif. It is 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 up
to 30% relative to today's domestic fleet of airplanes.
The U.S. airlines will offer feedback throughout the project,
including:
- Design: Airline participants will share feedback on
sustainable operations and airport compatibility. While the X-66A
will have a wingspan of 145 feet, the TTBW design could be used by
airplanes of different sizes and missions and may benefit from
folding wing tips to accommodate existing airport
infrastructure.
- Simulation and lab testing: Airline pilots will have a
chance to experience the X-66A through a flight simulator and
assess the vehicle's handling characteristics.
- Flight testing: Airline operations and maintenance teams
will assess the X-66A as modifications are made to the airplane.
Flight testing is slated for 2028 and 2029 out of NASA's Armstrong
Flight Research Center at Edwards Air Force Base.
As a leading global aerospace company, Boeing develops,
manufactures and services commercial airplanes, defense products
and space systems for customers in more than 150 countries. As a
top U.S. exporter, the company leverages the talents of a global
supplier base to advance economic opportunity, sustainability and
community impact. Boeing's diverse team is committed to innovating
for the future, leading with sustainability, and cultivating a
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SOURCE Boeing