Aviation

Boeing showed the X-66 demonstrator development by modifying the MD90 wings and engine.

Boeing has initiated a groundbreaking modification for the X-66 aircraft, derived from the MD90 aircraft design. This collaborative project with NASA is a significant stride in Boeing‘s commitment to sustainable aviation. Employing 3D scanning technology for the first time, Boeing is utilizing it to inform the engineering design of the X-66 aircraft wing.

The ongoing process involves extensive modifications to transform an existing airplane into the X-66 Sustainable Flight Demonstrator (SFD). This entails the removal of engines and comprehensive 3D metrology scans to guide the aircraft’s design and construction plan.

Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) design.

In a noteworthy move, Boeing has released a video showcasing the removal of the engine from the MD90 aircraft’s fuselage, anticipating subsequent wing redesign. The original wings of the MD-90 jet will undergo removal to facilitate testing of the Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) design.

This innovative design features ultrathin wings supported by struts with larger spans and higher aspect ratios. The broader wingspan and enhanced aerodynamic efficiency of TTBW hold the potential to significantly expedite opportunities for reducing fuel consumption and emissions.

The X-66 represents NASA’s inaugural experimental aircraft project dedicated to aiding the United States in achieving its ambitious goal of net-zero aviation greenhouse gas emissions. Ground and flight testing for the X-66 are slated to commence in 2028.

3D scanning data

Boeing’s utilization of 3D scanning data involves employing modeling software to overlay the existing MD-90 structure with the new X-66 components. This approach ensures more precise spatial integration and offers the opportunity to detect and address potential risks early in the modification process.

Boeing’s venture into the aerospace frontier with cutting-edge technology signifies a pivotal moment for the industry. By enhancing both the efficiency and safety of aircraft, Boeing is contributing to the evolution of aviation. Share your thoughts on Boeing’s latest development with the X-66 aircraft.

Aviation

Airbus Enhances A350 Cabin with 10-Abreast Seating

Airbus has announced a new partnership with Jiatai Aircraft Equipment, a Chinese aircraft seating manufacturer, to supply upgraded economy-class seats for the A350 widebody series.

This collaboration, unveiled at the 2024 Airshow China, focuses on developing a newly designed economy seat tailored for the A350‘s New Production Standard (NPS) cabin.

One of the key features of the NPS cabin is the ability to accommodate 17-inch wide economy seats, compared to the previous 16.5-inch wide seats that airlines were limited to in the A350’s earlier configurations.

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This change is made possible by the expanded space in the NPS cabin, which is 35 inches longer and 4 inches wider than the previous version. This extra space is achieved by slightly moving the cockpit wall forward and shifting the rear pressure bulkhead back by one frame.

The wider cabin allows airlines to add up to 30 extra economy seats without compromising comfort. For airlines opting for a 3-4-3 seating layout, the 17-inch wide seats are an excellent choice for a more comfortable passenger experience. However, some airlines, such as Iberia, may choose to retain a 9-abreast layout with wider seats for added comfort.

The NPS cabin also offers enhanced flexibility for airline operators. One major advantage is the ability to easily switch between a 9-abreast and 10-abreast seating configuration without requiring significant downtime for aircraft reconfiguration. Airlines can use the same seat rails, tracks, and IFE interfaces, making the transition smoother and quicker.

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In addition, the design of the floor attachments and air-conditioning systems has been optimized for 10-abreast seating, meaning airlines can upgrade their cabins without needing to make substantial modifications to the aircraft’s structure.

Though it’s still unclear when Jiatai’s economy-class seats will be officially added to the A350’s Buyer Furnished Equipment (BFE) catalogue, the collaboration marks a significant step toward enhancing the A350’s cabin offerings.

With this partnership, Airbus is providing more seating options for airlines, ensuring that they can meet diverse customer needs while improving overall operational efficiency.