Flying is not an eco-friendly activity, but it’s possible that an innovative V-shaped plane may be the answer to cutting down on fuel emissions.
Designed by researchers at Delft University in the Netherlands and backed financially by KLM Dutch Royal Airlines, the unique-looking aircraft is said to burn 20% fewer emissions than the most fuel-efficient plane on the market.
Its futuristic shape is said to make it lighter and more aerodynamic with the passengers, cargo, and fuel tanks held in its wings.
The plane would be able to hold the same amount of passengers and cargo as an A350 (314) but it’s smaller design would make it easier to fly with less resistance.
There are plans in motion to debut a flying scale model and display a full-sized cabin section as part of the October commemoration of KLM’s 100-year anniversary.
In an official statement, The dean of aerospace engineering at Delft University Henri Werj said he was “incredibly pleased to be able to cooperate with our trusted partner KLM on our combined mission to make aviation more sustainable”.
“Radically new and highly energy-efficient aircraft designs such as the Flying-V are important in this respect, as are new forms of propulsion.”
The dean of aerospace engineering at Delft University Henri Werj
“Our ultimate aim is one of emission-free flight. Our cooperation with KLM offers a tremendous opportunity to bring about real change,” he said.
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