Future aircraft developments

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A number of technologies have been identified for future aircraft developments (other than simple evolution of existing aircraft types):

• Blended wing body (research under way at Boeing and Cranfield University)
• Boundary layer suction (research under way at TU Delft)
• Use of Alternative fuels
• Fanwing (invested research by UK and Italian Governments)

[edit] Cambridge-MIT Silent Aircraft Initiative

SAX-40 is a future-oriented aircraft design intended to reduce noise, especially in near-ground conditions (take-off and landing), and enhance fuel efficiency. The design features a blended wing, above wing engines, adjustable exhaust profile, and the elimination of slats and flap. It is estimated that the earliest commercial flight would be around 2030 if the design was taken up.

• progress on SAX-40 concept as reported by the BBC
• Basics on how silence and efficiency is improved as explained by the BBC
• second-hand recap from The Inquirer
• more of the same from Wired
• Pravda.ru english article on the SAX-40 12 December 2006
• The SAX-40 has three engines, GRANTA-3401. Each engine has a single core, driving three high capacity low-speed fans.

Further details to be announced Monday 6 November 2006 at a presentation at the Royal Aeronautical Society.