14 October 2008
Innovation

Airbus has initiated a series of flight evaluations with its A340-600 test aircraft to validate the "PurePower" PW1000G technology demonstrator engine, which features Pratt & Whitney's patented "Geared Turbofan" (GTF) architecture.

These tests - conducted in cooperation with Pratt & Whitney - focus on the PG1000G's design elements, including its fan-drive gear system that incorporates a gearbox capable of absorbing greater power levels than those previously achieved on other engine designs.

Performed from Airbus' flight test facility in Toulouse, France through the end of 2008, these evaluations will produce data to evaluate the potential fuel burn and CO2 emissions of new engine technology. In addition, Airbus is working with all other major engine manufacturers and will conduct similar tests in the future.

The dedicated Airbus-owned A340-600 testbed aircraft has previously been used for extensive technology evaluations and is equipped with a full set of flight test instrumentation. With Airbus' understanding of the A340-600 test aircraft's aerodynamic performance, it can easily assess the benefits of new technologies when integrated into the airframe.

"Airbus is already delivering the world's most eco-efficient aircraft," said Airbus Executive Vice President, Strategy and Future Programs, Christian Scherer. "Sensitive to our position of being an industry leader, it is imperative to us that we continuously explore all technology developments to achieve our ambitious targets today and in the future."

Airbus will be the first aircraft manufacturer to obtain flight test results from the PW1000G during these evaluations - which follow Pratt & Whitney’s flight test campaign on its own company-operated testbed aircraft.