The correct prediction of the flow field is of crucial importance to drive numerical optimization to a real improvement of a design. For this purpose, different numerical approaches can be used to study the fluid dynamics characteristics and the performance of the design. In particular, in the present work the Reynolds-averaged Navier–Stokes and large eddy simulation approach are compared for an internal aerodynamic application. The obtained solutions are validated against experiments through a quantitative and qualitative comparison, i.e. pressure measurements and particle image velocimetry flow visualizations, respectively.