Aerospace

Airbus to Introduce autonomous pushback for Future Hybrid aircraft.

Pushback is crucial for the aircraft since it enables them to reverse. since airplane lacks external power to accomplish it. But, Airbus might stop needing the pushback trucks to perform that function in the future.

The nose gear motor, which will boost the electrical power to do so, will enable one of the future Airbus aircraft, which is powered by a hybrid electric, to pushback itself without the assistance of a pushback vehicle. As soon as the last aircraft has finished pushing back, the same electric energy fuels the turbines, which then run the propeller and generate enough thrust to move the aircraft forward.

At Airbus, hybrid electric power can cut CO2 emissions from airplanes by up to 5%. Although they are often lighter than fixed-wing aircraft, helicopters could account for as much as 10% of the total. Airbus is leading a cross-industry effort to make hybridization a reality because it represents a significant milestone in the aircraft industry’s decarbonization path.

A variety of innovative solutions that combine novel fuel types and emerging technologies are needed to decarbonize flight. Hybrid-electric propulsion is one such option that can increase the energy efficiency of all aircraft classes.

A single mechanical power source powers the propeller or fan in a serial architecture. Several sources of power exist besides batteries. Alternatives exist, such as hydrogen fuel cells. In any instance, dispersed propulsion is made possible by the propeller being always driven by an electric motor.

This #WorldEngineeringDay, we’re celebrating ? the work of our talented #TeamAirbus engineers who are preparing the future of aviation by developing, testing and maturing #hybridisation. Watch the video below to find out more ?.
? https://t.co/lNpyKuiAge pic.twitter.com/yBTZwD14le
— Airbus (@Airbus) March 4, 2023
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As far as hybridization is concerned, this is serial architecture’s biggest advantage. But it means adding weight in the shape of a generator, to convert mechanical power to electrical power.

In a parallel architecture, the gas turbine sometimes operates below peak efficiency. However, a smaller and lighter electric motor is enough to meet the requirements. So a parallel architecture is better suited to hybrid applications. What about the battery that powers the electric motor sitting within it?

Airbus Charging options

Whatever the technology, batteries need to be charged. For commercial aviation there are three options: swapping depleted units for new ones on the ground; or installing charge points at the gate, potentially using renewable energy. The latter requires investment in infrastructure but in the long term, this would be offset by fuel savings.

Thirdly, where ground infrastructure is lacking, the aircraft’s engines could recharge the batteries during the cruise phase of a flight. “The reality could well be a mix of all three,” says Segura, “depending on individual airline and airport choices.”

Aerospace

Which is bigger 777x or 787 aircraft ?

The 777X is a new series of the Boeing 777 family and is designed to be larger and more efficient than its predecessor. It features two variants: the 777-8 and the 777-9, being the larger of the two.

The Boeing 777X emerges as the larger sibling within the Boeing family, representing a significant leap forward in both size and efficiency. Comprising two variants, the 777-8 and the 777-9, the latter takes the crown as the larger of the two. With its expansive fuselage and impressive wingspan, the 777X is tailored for long-range journeys and boasts a substantial passenger capacity.

On the other hand, the Boeing 787, affectionately known as the Dreamliner, occupies a niche in the market as a smaller yet formidable aircraft designed for medium to long-range flights. Its distinguishing feature lies in its composite fuselage, a technological marvel that renders it lighter and more fuel-efficient compared to conventional aluminum counterparts. The Boeing 777X is larger than the Boeing 787 aircraft.

When it comes to passenger capacity, the 777-9 reigns supreme, typically accommodating a sizeable contingent of 400-425 passengers in its standard configuration. In contrast, the 787, with its more modest dimensions, typically carries between 240-290 passengers, depending on the variant and layout.

One of the remarkable innovations introduced with the 777X is its folding wingtips, a feature designed to address the logistical challenges of accommodating such a large aircraft in conventional airport gates. These folding wingtips enable the 777X to retract its wings, allowing it to fit into gates designed for smaller aircraft while still reaping the benefits of an extended wingspan during flight, thereby enhancing fuel efficiency and operational flexibility

Aerospace

China Secures Production Certificate for Mass Production of Pilotless eVTOL Aircraft

EHang

The first passenger-carrying pilotless electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft in the world, the EH216-S, has received the Production Certificate for its eVTOL aircraft from the Civil Aviation Administration of China (CAAC).

This is a significant milestone for EHang Holdings Limited, the leading UAM technology platform company in the world. This outstanding accomplishment is another big step towards mass manufacturing for the eVTOL aircraft and the ensuing commercial operations, building on the ground-breaking acquisition of the Type Certificate and the Standard Airworthiness Certificate for the EH216-S.

The PC is a crucial certificate that the aircraft maker receives from the CAAC, the country’s aviation authority. By obtaining this certificate, EHang has demonstrated that it has set up a quality management system for mass production that satisfies the airworthiness regulation standards set forth by the CAAC, and the company has been given permission to continue producing mass quantities.

It is also a strong guarantee of the calibre of the goods made by EHang. Raw materials, supplier management, manufacturing organisation, production quality control, aircraft pre-delivery test, after-sales repair and maintenance, etc. are all included in the mass production quality management system for the EH216-S.

To ensure that every aircraft and its components that roll off the production line strictly adhere to the approved type design and safety requirements, the system sets clear guidelines and documentation for every step in the production procedure. This ensures comprehensive traceability and safety control.

Aerospace

Four Airbus A380 Superjumbos lined up to be scrapped

EASA Proposes AD for Airbus A380 Wing Rib Foot Cracks

In a strategic move aimed at reclaiming valuable resources from the iconic Airbus A380 aircraft, VAS Aero Services and Dr. Peters Group have announced a significant collaboration.

This partnership marks a milestone in aviation logistics and aftermarket services, with four of these colossal planes slated for teardown and redistribution of used serviceable material (USM).

The venture between VAS Aero Services, renowned for its expertise in aircraft dismantlement, and Dr. Peters Group, a prominent Germany-based investment fund management firm, underscores a commitment to sustainable aviation practices. This isn’t their first foray into scrapping A380s; their successful partnership has already seen the dismantlement of these aircraft, making them pioneers in this niche.

Under the agreement, the latest consignment brings the tally to eight A380s entrusted to VAS by Dr. Peters Group. Managing Director Christian Mailly of Dr. Peters Group emphasized the trust placed in VAS, citing their unparalleled capabilities in dismantlement and aftermarket sales network. It’s a strategic move in response to the growing demand for quality USM parts, particularly with the resurgence in reliance on the A380.

Notably, the teardown process will be carried out at various locations, optimizing the positioning of harvested parts to cater to different markets. While some parts will be positioned in Europe to support operators in the region and the Middle East, others will remain in the Asia-Pacific region. This meticulous strategy ensures efficient access to spare parts, benefiting MROs and airlines across these markets.

The decision to retire these A380s comes at a time when operators are reassessing fleet strategies amidst evolving market dynamics. Despite initial plans for quick retirement due to the emergence of more fuel-efficient alternatives, factors such as a rebound in long-haul demand and delays in new widebody deliveries have prompted operators to reconsider. The A380, with its unique capacity and capabilities, presents a practical solution for short-term capacity management.