The 314 passenger Flying-V, that will burn 20 per cent less fuel than the most fuel-efficient plane available, will fly in scale prototype form later this year backed by KLM Royal Dutch Airlines.
The Flying V is designed for highly energy-efficient long-distance flights and its design integrates the passenger cabin, the cargo hold and the fuel tanks in the wings, creating a spectacular v-shape.
Its improved aerodynamic shape and reduced weight will mean it uses 20 per cent less fuel than the Airbus A350, today’s most advanced aircraft.
In the Flying-V – originally an idea of TU Berlin student Justus Benad during his thesis project at Airbus Hamburg – the passenger cabin, cargo hold and fuel tanks are integrated into its wing structure.
The design is not as long as an Airbus A350, but it has the same wingspan.
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This allows the Flying-V to use the present infrastructure at airports, such as gates and runways.
Project leader at TU Delft, Dr Roelof Vos said: “The Flying-V is smaller than the A350 and has less inflow surface area compared to the available amount of volume. The result is less resistance. That means the Flying-V needs less fuel for the same distance.”
In October 2019, researchers will present a flying prototype that will be used to test whether the Flying-V can remain stable and reliable while being flown at low speeds – during take-off and landing.
The Flying-V also provides researchers with a unique opportunity to improve passenger experience in aircraft, from the seating layout in the wings, to the design of the chairs and bathrooms.
Everything has to also be as light as possible, in order to maximise the efficiency gain the new aeroplane shape provides.
Peter Vink, Professor of Applied Ergonomics and Design at the Faculty of Industrial Design Engineering, is taking part in the project; “The new shape of the aircraft means we have exciting opportunities to design the interior, making flying more comfortable for passengers. For instance, as part of the Flying-V research, we’re looking into new options to having a rest or taking meals on a plane. Offering food from a buffet is one of the options we’re sinking our teeth in.”
