Blueprint
Blueprint
Bombardier’s BWB bizjet
On the eve of the EBACE business aviation show, Bombardier revealed an ultra-efficient and green business jet concept that could reduce emissions by 50% – the EcoJet. Not in itself a product launch, the EcoJet is a company research project and a vision of a sustainable future for business aviation with a blended wing body configuration – a first for a business jet-sized aircraft.
Arising out of explorative studies around a decade ago, Bombardier has tested the EcoJet’s aerodynamics in wind tunnels and says initial testing has found potential benefits, as well as flying a sub-scale BWB drone at a secret location in Quebec. The next steps, says the company, will be a larger-scale drone, recruitment and stakeholder outreach to suppliers and universities, and incorporating technology into future or current aircraft programmes.
The EcoJet features twin engines and twin tails. While the type of engine is not specified, the configuration chosen would help shield engine noise from the ground. Bombardier says the EcoJet would be compatible with SAF, hybrid-electric or hydrogen architectures.
As well as the optimised and blended fuselage, the EcoJet’s wing also features split-scimitar winglets to increase efficiency and reduce drag even further.
Bombardier says that research on the EcoJet will take its wing technology to the ‘sixth-generation’ by utilising digital twins, real-world testing, AI and 3D Navier-Stokes of the full aircraft.