eXtra Performance Wing Program Moving Along, Expected to Scale Up In Coming Years
Airbus announced a new phase in its recent eXtra Performance Wing system, moving into wind tunnel testing as they hone technology for use in industry decarbonization. The eXtra Performance Wing project began last fall, taking inspiration from natural wing systems as seen in biology in order to improve wing aerodynamics, efficiency, and performance. Airbus hopes that further study will yield benefits that reduce CO2 emissions in future aircraft, using their AlbatrossONE testbed aircraft. Its semi-aeroelastic hinged wings unlock during flight upon encountering instability or turbulence, tucking themselves once again to minimize unneeded drag.