Aircraft Aerodynamic Efficiency – Even Windshield Wiper Position Matters
In the quest to reduce drag and increase efficiency, every detail matters, right down to the windshield wiper position. These were the findings from a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) evaluation of a US Air Force Boeing KC-135 Stratotanker, which simulated airflow over the nose section of the aircraft.
By repositioning the wipers into a vertical position, a drag reduction of 0.8% was achieved. By supplementing those gains with a slimmer wiper design, an additional 0.2% was added to the total benefit. And while 1% might not seem significant, it can save millions of dollars in fuel costs every year when applied to an entire fleet of aircraft.
Gulfstream Patent Suggests Smart, Interactive Thrust Levers for Future Jets
A Gulfstream patent reveals plans for “smart” thrust levers that display engine alerts, utilize haptic feedback, and integrate emergency controls.
German Manufacturer Horten Unveils New Flying Wing Aircraft
Following their successful 2019 proof-of-concept flight test program, German aircraft manufacturer Horten unveils two new flying wing concepts.
First Flight of NASA’s X-59 Brings Domestic Supersonic Flight Closer to Reality
NASA’s X-59 program advances as the supersonic test aircraft achieves first flight.
