Airbus tests new fuel-efficient engine design

Airbus plans to test a new type of engine called "open fan" as it prepares to develop a successor to its popular A320 jets. This engine design features visible fan blades and aims to improve fuel efficiency by 20 to 30 percent compared to current models. The company will conduct test flights with a modified A380 aircraft towards the end of the decade. These flights are crucial to determine how best to power the next generation of single-aisle aircraft, expected to enter the market in the late 2030s. Bruno Fichefeux, Airbus’s head of future programs, emphasized the need to ensure the new technologies reach maturity before they can be fully integrated into future designs. The open fan technology is seen as a major breakthrough in achieving environmental goals for the aviation industry, which aims for net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Airbus is collaborating with CFM International, a joint venture between GE Aerospace and Safran, on this engine project. Mohamed Ali from GE Aerospace mentioned that they are discussing regulatory challenges, such as noise and safety concerns associated with the open fan design. The open fan engine is designed to be lightweight and will rotate at around 1,000 revolutions per minute, compared to 3,000 in conventional engines. There will also be safety measures in place to protect against potential damage from the fan blades. Christian Scherer, head of Airbus's plane-making division, highlighted the need to test the new design for its fuel efficiency advantages. Airbus is keeping options open regarding engine placement, whether on the wing or the rear of the aircraft. Additionally, Airbus reaffirmed its commitment to developing a hydrogen-powered plane but did not provide a new timeline for its launch. The company had previously delayed plans for a 100-seat hydrogen aircraft, with CEO Guillaume Faury highlighting the importance of ensuring that any new technology is commercially viable.