Airbus highlighted the key technologies for its future narrowbody aircraft, which could enter service in the second half of the next decade, during its summit event on March 25, 2025.
Technologies include more efficient engines such as the open fan designs and long foldable wings allowing for significant aerodynamic gains.
In addition, the future aircraft could feature next-generation batteries to enable hybrid architectures where electricity is increasingly used to support propulsive and non-propulsive functions aboard the aircraft. The aircraft would also feature lightweight materials and integrated systems.
“We are taking the best of what we've done and preparing another jump to make our single-aisle aircraft even better and pioneer the future of flight, when the time is right,” said Airbus head of future programmes Bruno Fichefeux.
Airbus head of R&T Karim Mokaddem added: “Airbus teams are working relentlessly towards the key decisions that will ultimately finalise the choices of the aircraft's engine type, wing design and additional innovations once their maturity is demonstrated.
“Each of these technology building blocks will play a key role in enabling a new generation of commercial aircraft that will deliver step change improvements in all domains for efficiency and productivity and bring a considerable contribution to the decarbonisation of air travel in the decades to come.”
The new aircraft will also have the capability to fly 100% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF). The OEM is also testing a new SAF book and claim initiative.