Emerging Technologies

Etihad Airways is the first airline to join the Aviation Impact Accelerator (AIA), an international group of practitioners and academia convened by the University of Cambridge.

Airbus has successfully delivered its first full-size wing prototype or ‘demonstrator’ through its Wing of Tomorrow programme to help mature next-generation wing technologies.

Airbus UpNext plans to flight test a hydrogen-burning engine at altitude on a powered glider.

UK funds low-carbon and advanced-mobility projects; GKN leads Dutch research; and Defining a heavy-lift airship.

Washington DC-based Alder Fuels expects completion of its first “greencrude” plant in 2024.

The two companies will cooperate on a series of early concept ground tests of a Rolls AE 2100 engine, followed by a full-scale ground test of a Rolls Pearl 15 jet engine.

Airbus UpNext has selected Curtiss-Wright’s Actuation Division to provide custom actuation technology for use on the eXtra performance WING demonstrator project.

Its companies are using merged capabilities, from airport operations to air traffic control and inflight operations and maintenance.

Airbus says it is focusing on three main “building blocks” to establishing the technology.

The aftermarket is also keeping an eye on new propulsion technologies at Farnborough.

The open fan propulsion system will be flight-tested on an A380.

Airbus and CFM International are teaming up to flight test CFM’s open fan engine architecture.

Boom says the Overture will be capable of takeoff at derated thrust settings, helping reduce noise.

Traditional engine-makers appear to be closing in on the sweet spot between conventional powerplants and batteries as the development of hybrid

Kathy Warden discusses the JWST, growth in the space market, the B-21 family of systems and a goal for the fighter market.

Study finds electric aircraft’s effect on decarbonizing aviation could be greater than their direct contribution to reducing emissions.

Rolls-Royce engineers have used digital tools and rapid manufacturing techniques to develop an entirely new turbofan engine concept from scratch in just 18 months.

The UK has announced a series of investment package to further its green aviation agenda.

News in brief from the Farnborough Airshow.

Bustanica has opened the doors to the world’s largest hydroponic farm, backed by an investment of US$40m.

The Raytheon companies are developing a hybrid-electric technology demonstrator program.

Liquid hydrogen ground tests will begin later this year.

Rolls sees 2030 as the likely timing for service entry,

Raízen will help Embraer reach its target of having SAF blends representing 100% of its fuel consumption within Brazil by the end of the decade.

The question of whether the pursuit of zero-carbon flight should see the creation of a UK-based aircraft manufacturer divides opinion.