Aviation

Boeing’s X-66 Modification: Engine Removal & Adding Scanning Technology

Boeing has started removing engines and finishing 3D metrology scans to inform the plane’s design and build plan on an aircraft that will become the X-66 Sustainable Flight Demonstrator (SFD).

To test the Transonic Truss-Braced Wing (TTBW) design, the original wings of the MD-90 jet will soon be removed. In their place will be new, ultrathin wings supported by struts with greater spans and aspect ratios. Because of its larger wing span and increased aerodynamic efficiency, TTBW may be able to take advantage of more opportunities to cut emissions and fuel use.

NASA’s first experimental aircraft project aimed at assisting the United States in reaching its net-zero aviation greenhouse gas emissions target is the X-66. Testing on land and in the air is anticipated to start in 2028.

Boeing released a time-lapse video of recent steps in the conversion including:

Removal of the engines and thrust reversers
Jacking and shoring of the jet to simulate the condition of the airplane during full modification
3D laser scanning of the airplane structure

Boeing will overlay the new X-66 components on top of the current MD-90 structure using 3D modeling software and the scanned data. This will allow for more precise spatial integration and the chance to identify and reduce risks early in the modification process.

Aviation

Airbus Plans Cockpit Toilet to Make Single-Pilot Operations a Reality

In a bold move aimed at cutting costs, Airbus is exploring the possibility of installing a potty-style toilet right behind the Captain’s seat on its A350 long-haul aircraft. According to the reports from paddleyourownkanoo.com

This proposal is part of the ongoing effort to implement Extended Minimum Crew Operations (eMCO), a concept that could revolutionize the aviation industry by reducing the number of pilots required on ultra-long-haul flights.

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Currently, on long flights, two pilots stay in the cockpit while the others rest in a separate compartment. However, under eMCO, one pilot could be alone in the cockpit for up to three hours while the other sleeps. The goal is to reduce crew costs and improve airline efficiency, as fewer pilots would be needed for these flights.

But this proposal has raised concerns from pilot unions, who worry about safety and the challenges of single-pilot operations. To address the issue of bathroom breaks, Airbus suggests installing a radio-equipped toilet in the cockpit, allowing the pilot to use it without leaving their seat.

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If the pilot needs to use the toilet, the second pilot would have to be woken up, terminating the eMCO process temporarily.

If successful, Airbus plans to begin testing this system on its A350 aircraft as soon as 2027, with single-pilot operations possibly being introduced on freighter Airbus A320s within the next five years.