A new innovative airplane design known as the Flying-V embraces an entirely different approach to aircraft design. Named after the iconic Gibson Flying-V electric guitar, this plane is designed by researchers from Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) in the Netherlands. Dutch airline KLM is funding this revolutionary aeronautical project.
Professor Henri Werij, dean of the university’s faculty of aerospace engineering, said, “New and energy-efficient aircraft designs such as the Flying-V are important, as are new forms of propulsion. Our ultimate aim is emission-free flight.”
Here are some of its salient features:
- Aerodynamic shape and reduced weight of this highly energy-efficient plane allow it to use 20% less fuel than the most efficient plane.
- The wings of this pioneering aircraft would host the passenger space, cargo hold, fuel tanks and all other infrastructure.
- Total width of ‘Flying-V’ is 215ft (65m) and its length will be slightly shorter, at 180 ft (55m).
- Having the same wingspan as existing planes, it will be able to carry up to 314 passengers.
If all goes well, we won’t have to wait for long, as a prototype model is expected to take flight later this year.
