Airbus to test folding wings for next generation of bestselling planes
Summary
Airbus is testing folding wings for its next generation of planes to save energy and fit better in crowded airports. The company plans to try wing extensions on an A321neo plane next year and decide the new aircraft design by 2030. Rolls-Royce aims to supply new engines for these planes and is seeking UK government support for its UltraFan engine program.Key Facts
- Airbus will test folding wing extensions around 4-5 meters long on an A321neo plane in 2025.
- Folding wings help longer wings fit into existing airport gates, improving energy efficiency.
- Boeing already uses folding wingtips on its 777X but not on single-aisle planes like Airbus’s A321neo.
- Airbus plans to decide the shape of its new planes by 2030, including wing shape and engine type.
- New planes will have heavier, larger engines and wings shaped like a gull’s for better aerodynamics.
- Rolls-Royce is developing UltraFan engines for both widebody and narrowbody planes.
- Rolls-Royce seeks UK government support to invest in its engine program, arguing it will boost the UK economy.
- UK government must balance support for Rolls-Royce with other priorities like social care and homelessness.
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